You're right.
As long as you're talking of Europe versus the US.
Please don't compare the standard of living in Scandinavia, the richest part of the world, to the US.
The US is rich, richer than Europe in general, but you can't afford to drive around in the Audi's, BMW's and Volvo's we do and the building standard of your houses are not similar to ours.
Umm wrong.
Prices in Scandinavian countries are already atrocious. How long do you think it will take before the "World Market" will buy goods somewhere else where it is cheaper?
Most Americans don't want to drive around in BMW, Volvos and Audis.
They prefer the Lexus, Acura and American cars at half to one third of the price. A much better Value.
As to Building standadrs of houses, it depends where you live. In the Northeast, close to northern European standards.
Here in Florida, Northern homes or European Homes couldn't be nuild, because the codes are very strict. Here a House and especially a roof has to withstand 150 Miles per Hour Wind in hurricanes.
Out West houses have to be build with Earthquakes in mind.
You simply cannot generalize like most Eunochs do without looking into the facts about each individual situation. Do some research.
Here in Florida most houses are Stone houses. Northeast lot of Wood, Out west also lots of wood, except in cities where large buildings are Stone, but have to be Earthquake proof.
Remember the old saying: Arrogance comes before the fall.