Query - San Antonio Texas
 

Hi guys,

Just wanted to ask something very quickly, I'll make it short.

I came to the USA in the beginning of the year from England after getting married to my wife (a US Citizen).

In England, I lived in Bristol and worked within the water industy, the job wasn't great pay, but I enjoyed the work (23,500 GBP).


My question is, I've recently been offered a job in San Antonio in a similiar position, with a salary of 27,000 USD.


Firstly, I know these aren't great salaries in either country, but I need to start somewhere.

My question is, I know a direct exchange rate from my UK salary would be in the 34-36k USD range, but on 27,000 USD would my standard of living in San Antonio, Texas be comparable to a 23k GBP salary in Bristol, England? Am I alot worse off? :(

Thanks guys:)

Re: Query - San Antonio Texas
 

Making a VERY broad generalization, US dollars spend like GBP, so you'll be about as well off in terms of what you can do with your pay. The largest difference is potentially the cost of health department insurance, which could set your standard of living back if your employer doesn't subsidize your health insurance.

Re: Query - San Antonio Texas
 

I'm still to inquire precise details but the company will provide medical/dental insurance :)

Re: Query - San Antonio Texas
 

Find out about copays, deductibles, HMO or PPO, medications etc. These could get extremely expensive.

Re: Query - San Antonio Texas
 

Can your wife relocate easily?

I suppose comparing it to your UK job is pointless now - $27,000 is better than no job.

Re: Query - San Antonio Texas
 

They could, but, to be blunt, there is bügger all he can do about those (except to be aware of them and what they could mean, and then avoid high risk activities like riding a motor bike or rock climbing), and as Sally said, a job is better than no job.

Re: Query - San Antonio Texas
 

Thanks guys,

I'm aware that medical expenses can be the crippler here in the States.

Also I'm not in a bad position where I _need_ to take this job, I don't, but it is the first concrete job offer I've had so far.

I just wanted to put it out there to get some feedback :)

Re: Query - San Antonio Texas
 

As a practical point, generally speaking, it is MUCH easier to get a job if you have a job, so unless the job is dramatically different (e.g. hands-on labourer v dept head (white collar)) from other jobs you're (on paper) qualified for, I'd recommend you take it.

Re: Query - San Antonio Texas
 

Is this an operator type job or in a lab?

Will your new employer send you to classes to get license's? If so you will probably get pay increases.

Re: Query - San Antonio Texas
 

Given the choice of taking an uncertain job or continuing the job hunt, I would take the job.

When I moved, 10 years ago, the (temp) work I got, paid the same in $ as I had earned in pounds in hotel management in London ie 20k ish, and the standard of living was comparable. After a while, I was able to get on the property ladder here, where in the UK would have required at least double the income.

I am comparing London and Tampa, but originally from Bristol, and know nothing of Texas, so make of it what you will:)

Re: Query - San Antonio Texas
 

Thanks Rich!

Re: Query - San Antonio Texas
 

This.

Take the job, get US experience on your resume and then you can look for other jobs if need be. I assume you're not earning at present so some income and a foot on the ladder is better than none.

Re: Query - San Antonio Texas
 

Doing what exactly?

A trainee position working for San Antonio Water System is currently listed for $11.37 - $17.06 Hourly ($23,659.00 - $35,489.00 Annually), which includes benefits.
http://agency.governmentjobs.com/saw...m?JobID=778146

Re: Query - San Antonio Texas
 

Hi thinbrit,

I was actually a GIS technician within the asset management department, this role is also a GIS technician role :)

Re: Query - San Antonio Texas
 

which incidentally when I look up that position on your site, its a $17.73 - $26.60 Hourly salary, even for an entry level technician : / hmm


http://agency.governmentjobs.com/saw...headerfooter=0