The problem in Europe is the fuel taxes that the Gov puts on every liter of fuel that is brought into the country. In allot of European countries there is something like a 100% tax on fuel. Just like everything else in Eu the taxes just kill the cost of anything and everything, but that is also why you have medical and educational benefits for free. The last time I read the income tax level in the UK was right at about 50% on every pound earned. there are pros and cons to both sides of that coin. Sure we have lower tax rates in the USA, but we also have a serious medical benefit issue and our education options have gone through the roof $$$$$. So it all depends on how you are looking at the situation.