Americans have been left stunned after finding out what people in the UK consider a good salary, sparking debate over living standards.
Americans baffled to discover what counts as a ‘good’ income in the UK
A recent social media debate has left many Americans baffled after learning what is considered a “good” salary in the United Kingdom.
The discussion kicked off on TikTok when a UK-based money chart went viral. It sparked comparisons between British and American income expectations, living costs, and lifestyles.
The chart was shared with a TikToker known for analyzing how people spend their money.
It showed a British individual breaking down their annual earnings and expenses.
According to the chart, the person’s full-time job pays £30,000 (approximately $40,000) per year, an amount that Forbes lists as close to the national average salary in the UK.
American TikToker criticizes British income level
The reaction from American viewers was immediate and blunt.
TikToker limmy0705 was particularly vocal, questioning how £30,000 (approximately $40,000) could be considered a decent wage.
“People in the US would think you’re broke,” he commented, adding that such a salary would barely cover basic needs in many American cities.
However, the British subject in question also earns an additional £17,000 from a part-time job and £14,400 as a landlord, bringing their total annual income to £61,800.
Still, the American creator was shocked to see £18,000 of that going toward rent, more than half the individual’s full-time salary.
“People say over here that you’re doing a good job if you’re keeping the amount of money that you spend on rent less than 30 percent of your income,” he slams.
British defenders point to broader social benefits
British TikTok users were quick to respond, defending the cost of living in the UK.
They emphasized the country’s free public healthcare, lower university fees, and social safety nets.
“I’ll take my free NHS over your $10,000 hospital bill,” one commenter said. Another added: “We don’t need to earn $100K to live a decent life.”
Many also argued that £30,000 isn’t necessarily “good,” but rather a livable or average income.
“It’s enough to get by, but not much more,” one user explained.
Different economic systems shape perspectives
The debate ultimately boils down to broader structural differences between the two countries.
In the United States, the average income is roughly $62,000 (£48,000), according to recent data from Demandsage.
Meanwhile, a GoBankingRates.com survey found that most Americans believe a comfortable income in 2025 lies between $75,000 (£58,000) and $100,000 (£77,000).
In contrast, UK income data shows the top 10% of earners make £59,200 or more, close to what many Americans would consider the baseline for comfort.
British users argue that they don’t need to earn six figures to meet basic needs or access healthcare.
Cultural divide revealed through online reactions
Beyond the numbers, the comments reveal a deep cultural divide.
One Reddit user summed it up: “The US is more competitive, less worker-friendly, and expects longer hours. That higher pay often comes with higher stress.”
Another British user pointed out the inflated cost of basic goods in the US. “You pay $12 for eggs. That’s insane,” they wrote.
The discussion has emphasized how income levels are only part of the picture.
A higher salary in the U.S. may reflect fewer government services, higher personal costs, and more financial pressure.
Meanwhile, a “modest” UK salary can go further thanks to broader social support.