LONDON CITY

I know this is a London forum and life in your area can certainly be
more expensive than other parts of the UK. Nonetheless, Id like to
start somewhere and dont mind being directed to a more appropriate
forum.

Ive travelled tothe UK quite a bit and have been curious about the
local economy, especially now that the currency exchange with the
dollar is highly favorable to you and excruciatingly tough on many
American tourists. My question has to do with the purchasing power of
the pound in the UK vs. the US$ in America. I have noticed that,
provided one disregards currency differences, a British pound in the
UK buys basically the same product or good as the US$ does in the USA.
That is, something that costs 50.00UK in the UK pretty much costs
50.00US in the States. Of course, the American tourist today ends up
paying double for that West End Show or dinner in Britain than were s/
he to purchase a Brodway show ticket or dinner in NYC. The British
tourist, though, makes out like a champ in the US under current
currency rates.

Now, what salary levels are necessary for someone to lead a reasonably
comfortable existence in the UK (OK, use London for comparison,
since this is a London forum)? By reasonably comfortable I mean a
single wage earner, no second job needed, purchase whatever one wants
or chooses, live in a moderately sized flat or home, vacations during
the year (domestic or international), etc.

Perhaps salary comparisons could be made between a white collar worker
with and without university training, or professional training,
vs.someone with the equivalent of a 12th grade education (no college)
and some form of occupation, as opposed to a profession.

I know this may be complicated to answer and might result in more
questions that I could possibly anticipate, but if anyone has a clue
as to what Im looking for,Id appreciate an answer...

Thanks!

Pete in Sunny Florida

The biggest problem in London for those that want to work is they have
to carry too many non workers.
London is the best place in the world for those that do not want to
work .
The next problem is that the Government think they know how to spend
our money better than we can.
Few - if any - unskilled people can own living accommodation on one
wage but if you decide not to work they will give you a place.

That should start your debate or as we say - put the cat among the
birds!

Ł1 will buy 1 US worth, ignoring exchange rates.