Imagine walking the streets of Barcelona and suddenly feeling like you’re back in San Diego.
It’s not just your imagination – California and Spain score almost identically on the Human Development Index, and share Mediterranean climates, wine regions, low obesity… and yes, those notoriously high taxes.
And California with Spain is just one of 15 surprising pairs we’ve discovered.
What would it feel like to move from Michigan to Sweden and barely notice a difference in your neighbourhood?
Or which European nation offers the same lifestyle as Florida but with an extra charm, and lower prices?
So let’s find YOUR state’s European twin.
And we start with…
California and Spain: Mediterranean Twins
Have you ever noticed how the palm trees in Valencia look strangely familiar to those in Santa Monica?
It’s not just the trees – California and Spain share a Human Development Index that’s almost identical. California comes in at 0.935 while Spain sits at 0.911. Remember that the HDI considers education, income, and longevity, so we have similarities in these 3 aspects at once
Both California and Spain built their reputations on spectacular coastlines that attract millions of visitors each year.
The wine regions tell a similar story. California’s Napa Valley and Spain’s Rioja region have become global wine destinations. Both areas produce world-class wines that attract tourists, contribute significantly to their local economies, and are cultural institutions that reflect centuries of agricultural tradition.
Even the climate patterns match with surprising precision. California maintains an average temperature of about 18°C with approximately 380mm of rainfall annually. Spain follows closely with an average of 16°C and around 450mm of rainfall. This shared Mediterranean climate creates similar growing conditions for agriculture and fosters a lifestyle centered around outdoor activities.
The tech scene represents another striking parallel. While California has Silicon Valley, Spain has developed its own tech hub in Barcelona. Both regions have leveraged their pleasant climates to draw tech talent.
Also interesting are the shared challenges. Both regions struggle with high taxes, water management issues in their drier areas, and rising housing costs in major cities like San Francisco and Madrid.
One notable difference, however, is safety. While California struggles with crime in certain urban areas, Spain generally maintains lower crime rates. Add in Spain’s affordable healthcare system, and you have a compelling case for Californians looking to make a European move.
So if you walk through a Spanish plaza someday, surrounded by palm trees and sunshine, don’t be surprised if it feels strangely like home. But do not expect to find an In-N-Out nearby.
The next comparison is probably the most unexpected in this list, but data suggests it makes a lot of sense.
But before, I have some really good news.
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Texas and France: Surprising Parallels
What if I told you that the fiercely independent spirit of Texas has a European counterpart in France?
Yes, France.
Both Texas and France carry immense pride in their unique identity and histories. Texans celebrate their Lone Star heritage and independent spirit, while the French take equal pride in their singular cultural identity and historical significance.
Both are economic powerhouses with mixed landscapes that range from coastal areas to inland terrain. And both have huge, sparsely inhabited regions: the emptiness of West Texas is quite comparable to the empty diagonal of France.
The energy sector reveals another fascinating parallel. Texas leads in oil production with a growing renewable energy sector, particularly in wind power.
France takes a different approach with its extensive nuclear energy program.
While Texans enjoy lower gasoline prices, the French benefit from some of the lowest electricity prices in Europe. Different approaches, but both regions are energy leaders in their own right.
Even the urban-rural mix creates similar living patterns – Houston, like Paris, serves as a hub for culture, commerce, and innovation. And – at the risk of receiving some angry comments from both Texans and the French, both cities have a bad reputation regarding crime.
And despite the economic dominance of these large cities, both Texas and France also maintain strong rural traditions alongside their urban centers, and small-town Texas is as different from Houston as small-town France is from Paris.
The food culture might be the most surprising connection. The French appreciation for long meals, regional specialties, and culinary traditions mirrors the Texan approach to food. While the specific dishes differ dramatically, the attitude toward food as a social experience and expression of regional identity is common in both.
There are, however, two big differences: healthcare and taxes. But that is a subject of another article…
Florida and Italy: Where Coastal Charm Meets Cultural Heritage
It is summer, and you are sipping coffee at a waterfront café. The sun warms your skin, boats bobbing in the harbor. Are you in Naples, Florida, or Naples, Italy?
Florida and Italy share more than just a peninsula geography. This shared shape has influenced how people live in both places, creating lifestyles centered around coastlines and maritime activities. Both regions stretch into warm waters – Florida between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic, and Italy into the Mediterranean.
Despite vastly different histories – Florida’s recent development versus Italy’s millennia of civilization – both have built economies heavily reliant on tourism.
Florida attracts millions of visitors to its theme parks and beaches. Walt Disney World alone draws over 20 million visitors annually. Similarly, Italy welcomes tourists to its historical sites and Mediterranean coastline. The Amalfi Coast, the Sicilian island, and Rome, the eternal city, create an irresistible pull for travelers worldwide.
The demographic patterns show another striking similarity. Both regions feature large retirement communities. Florida has long been a destination for American retirees seeking warm weather and recreational activities. Italy, particularly in its southern regions, also has a significant aging population and newcomers that shape its social services and economy.
The climate creates yet another parallel. Florida maintains an average temperature of about 24°C with high humidity. Southern Italy’s Mediterranean weather mirrors this pattern with hot summers and mild winters.
In both places you can survive speaking just a romance language (Italian in Italy and Spanish in Florida) – I am just kidding here.
And both places are prone to natural disasters: Florida with its hurricanes, and Italy with earthquakes.
After 8 years living in Europe, Italy is one of my favorite places, and everything there feels healthier. and a bit slower too, for good, or bad (bureaucracy…). I made an entire article about Tuscany, in Italy, so check it later.
New York and the UK: Urban Powerhouses with Global Influence
I start this comparison by stating one impression I had: South Manhattan looks quite similar to Canary Wharf – too similar. The glass skyscrapers, the busy professionals rushing through the streets, even the way the light reflects off the buildings at sunset.
Similarities do not stop there – New York and the United Kingdom share remarkably similar HDI scores: 0.931 and 0.929.
These regions have evolved as financial and cultural capitals on opposite sides of the Atlantic, yet they function almost like mirror images. Wall Street and the City of London both serve as nerve centers of global finance.
Beyond finance, both regions drive cultural trends that ripple across the globe. Broadway and the West End set the standard for theater. The fashion scenes in both New York and London influence what people wear from Tokyo to São Paulo.Londo
The population patterns create another parallel. Both have hyper-dense urban centers where space comes at an incredible premium. Manhattan’s packed streets find their match in London’s crowded neighborhoods.
But travel just an hour outside these urban cores, and you’ll find yourself in much more relaxed environments. Upstate New York with its mountains and valleys shares similarities with the English countryside – the Old York.
New York’s diversity mirrors the UK’s multi-ethnic society. Both places have welcomed immigrants from around the world for generations. You can hear dozens of languages on a single subway or tube ride. This diversity also brings challenges, with both regions experiencing some ethnic tensions.
Non-English Speakers in New York
Perhaps the most painful similarity is the housing market. Try finding an affordable apartment in Manhattan or London, and you’ll quickly understand why housing costs dominate local politics in both places.
By the way, if you’re reading this article, you’re probably planning to travel abroad for a longer time, and you want to save money and pay fewer taxes. I’ve written three top-rated Amazon books on living abroad, based on my experiences and insights from hundreds who’ve done the same – You can purchase them through this link.
Pennsylvania and Germany (Or Austria)
Pennsylvania and Germany share industrial histories that have shaped not just their economies but their entire cultural identities. When you look at old steel towns like Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, you can see echoes of the Ruhr Valley in Germany.
Both regions grew into manufacturing giants during the Industrial Revolution and have since transformed themselves.
These regions followed remarkably similar paths from manufacturing powerhouses to modern economies. Pennsylvania once dominated steel production but has since expanded into healthcare, education, and technology. Similarly, Germany transitioned from traditional manufacturing to become a leader in advanced manufacturing and technology.
The urban-rural balance in both regions creates another parallel. Pennsylvania features urban centers like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh surrounded by beautiful countryside and smaller towns. Germany follows this same pattern with major cities like Berlin and Munich existing alongside small villages and rural landscapes.
Pennsylvania’s significant German heritage, a result of historical migration, creates lasting cultural connections, evident in everything from Amish communities preserving German dialects to widespread food traditions.
There are challenges, too. Both have cities where drug abuse remains a significant issue – Philadelphia’s struggles with addiction parallel similar issues in parts of Berlin.
The German emphasis on technical education and apprenticeships mirrors Pennsylvania’s vocational traditions. Even the seasonal changes feel similar – both regions experience four distinct seasons with beautiful autumn colors.
The comparable HDI scores – Pennsylvania at 0.928 and Germany at 0.950 – confirm the similar quality of life these regions offer.
The biggest difference is in terms of safety – Pennsylvania is way less safe than Germany, and in almost every statistic, Pennsylvania has numbers showing 6 to 10 times more violent crime.
Illinois and The Czech Republic: Heartland Values Meet Central European Charm
Some people might disagree with this pairing, and say that instead Poland is a much better comparison to Illinois – after all, almost 1 million people with Polish roots live in this American state.
But Poland is not a good comparison because Illinois is a very urbanized state, and Poland is the opposite: almost 40% of the Polish population lives in rural zones.
The Czech Republic, in this and many other aspects, is way more similar.
The numbers back this up. Illinois has about 86.9% of its population living in urban areas, while the Czech Republic has around 75%. Both regions center around powerful urban cores – Chicago and Prague – that shape the identity of their entire regions.
When you look at Chicago and Prague, you see two cities that pretty much run their states. Both serve as major transportation hubs for their regions, connecting multiple transportation networks. In the same fashion that Chicago is more famous than Illinois, Prague is better known than the Czech Republic.
Additionally, both Illinois and the Czech Republic have transformed their economies in similar ways. What were once industrial powerhouses have evolved into diverse economic models, including technology, finance, and services. This shift from manufacturing to knowledge-based industries reflects a shared path of economic development.
Even the population sizes are comparable – Illinois has about 12.7 million residents while the Czech Republic has around 10.5 million.
The four-season climate in both regions creates similar seasonal rhythms and outdoor activities.
Their central locations – Illinois in the heart of America and the Czech Republic in the center of Europe – have made both places a center where multiple influences blend.
Ohio and Romania: Industrial Rebirth and Natural Beauty
Ohio’s journey from manufacturing decline to revitalization mirrors Romania’s post-communist transformation. These two regions share remarkably similar development paths. Ohio scores 0.892 on the Human Development Index while Romania comes in at 0.821 – numbers that reflect comparable quality of life despite their geographic distance.
Both regions have weathered major economic transitions.
Ohio’s industrial cities, like Cleveland and Cincinnati, once dominated manufacturing but faced decline as industries shifted overseas. The “Rust Belt” nickname captures this painful transition.
Similarly, Romania underwent massive economic restructuring after the fall of communism in 1989. Its industrial centers, built during the communist era, faced similar challenges adapting to the global market economy.Just like Ohio, Romania became… rusty.
What’s interesting is how both places are finding new paths forward. Ohio has diversified into healthcare, technology, and education sectors. Cities like Columbus have reinvented themselves as tech hubs. Romania has followed a parallel track, transitioning from a centrally planned economy to a market-based system with growing technology sectors in cities like Cluj – and they also have one of the fastest average internet speeds in the world!
The landscape similarities are striking too. Ohio features a mix of industrial cities alongside natural attractions like Hocking Hills and the shores of Lake Erie. Romania offers a similar contrast between industrial centers and natural beauty with the Carpathian Mountains and forests covering about a third of the country.
A major advantage both regions share is affordability. The cost of living in Ohio remains lower than coastal American states, offering reasonable housing prices and good value.
Romania similarly provides more affordable living compared to Western European countries.
Ohio’s connection to Lake Erie parallels Romania’s Black Sea coastline. Both waterways provide important economic benefits through shipping, tourism, and recreation. Lake Erie supports Ohio’s tourism and fishing industries, while Romania’s 245 kilometers of Black Sea coast drives significant tourism.
Georgia and Bulgaria: Where Southern Hospitality Meets Balkan Warmth
Check these two pictures – do they look similar to you?
They look tremendously similar to me, despite one being in Georgia, and the other in Bulgaria.
Georgia and Bulgaria share geographic features that create an almost uncanny resemblance. Both have a mix of mountains and coastal areas that provide diverse terrains. Georgia has the Blue Ridge Mountains in the north and the Atlantic coastline to the east. Bulgaria offers the Balkan Mountains and its Black Sea coast.
The weather patterns also match closely. Georgia’s warm, humid summers and mild winters compare well with Bulgaria’s climate, especially in its southern regions.
It is interesting how both regions maintain strong agricultural traditions. Georgia is famous for its peaches and pecans, while Bulgaria has deep farming traditions of its own. This agricultural focus has created food cultures that value fresh, local ingredients and traditional recipes passed down through generations.
The cost of living in both regions offers another striking similarity. Both Georgia and Bulgaria provide more affordable living compared to their neighbors. In Georgia, housing costs and daily expenses remain lower than in many northeastern or western states.
Similarly, Bulgaria offers one of the most affordable lifestyles in the European Union.
Family plays a central role in both cultures. The southern hospitality of Georgia, with its emphasis on community connections and family gatherings, finds a parallel in Bulgaria’s Balkan warmth.
Both places are also finding similar balances between tradition and progress. Atlanta has emerged as a tech hub while maintaining Georgia’s traditional values. Similarly, Sofia in Bulgaria has developed a growing tech sector while preserving its cultural heritage.
And another similarity is that Bulgaria have one of the highest obesity percentages in Europe,
while Georgia is one of the most obese states in the US….
Michigan and Sweden: Great Lakes Meet Nordic Innovation
Michigan and Sweden share population sizes that are remarkably similar – Michigan with 10.2 million people and Sweden with about 10.7 million. This similarity extends beyond just numbers.
If you look at Michigan on a map, you’ll notice the Great Lakes surrounding it, creating a landscape filled with water and forests. This environment closely mirrors Sweden’s geography with its numerous lakes and extensive woodlands. Both regions have a deep connection to their natural surroundings.
The climate patterns align almost perfectly too. Both experience four distinct seasons with cold, snowy winters that transition into mild, pleasant summers. This similar weather creates comparable lifestyle rhythms throughout the year.
Both regions also share industrial backgrounds, particularly in automotive manufacturing.
And here is where things get a bit more… curious, and risky.
Historically, both Sweden and Michigan enjoyed periods of prosperity. Michigan was a powerhouse of the American automotive industry, with Detroit as its crown jewel in the mid-20th century, generating wealth through companies like Ford and General Motors.
Similarly, Sweden’s industrial boom, driven by companies like Volvo and Ericsson, made it one of Europe’s wealthiest nations.
However, both have faced economic decline. Michigan’s auto industry crumbled under global competition and deindustrialization, leading to population loss (Detroit’s population fell from 1.8 million in 1950 to 639,000 by 2020).
Sweden, while still affluent, has seen stagnation in its welfare state model, with GDP per capita growth slowing and public debt rising (from 18% of GDP in 2000 to 33% in 2023).
Urban decay marks both parts of Michigan and Sweden.
Detroit and Malmö, Sweden’s third-largest city, grapple with high crime rates. Detroit’s violent crime rate was 2,007 per 100,000 people in 2021, among the highest in the U.S.
Malmö’s crime rate, while lower, is significant for Sweden, with 1,802 violent crimes per 100,000 in 2022. Both cities face organized crime—Detroit with drug trafficking networks, and Malmö with gang-related shootings tied to drug markets.
Washington and Norway: Pacific Northwest Meets Scandinavian Splendor
Washington and Norway share strikingly similar HDI scores – Washington at 0.934 and Norway at 0.961.
They represent some of the highest quality of life ratings in their respective regions and reveal how these two areas have developed above their neighboring states and countries.
Despite being separated by an ocean and a continent, Washington and Norway have created parallel economies and lifestyles shaped by their similar geography and climate. Both regions feature dramatic coastlines that wind along cold northern waters. Their mountain ranges – the Cascades in Washington and various ranges throughout Norway – create stunning backdrops and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Both also have thriving fishing industries.
The forests in both regions are abundant and lush, supporting diverse ecosystems and providing spaces for hiking, camping, and connecting with nature.
Their electricity generation matrix shows another striking similarity – both are hydroelectric powerhouses.
Both regions face high costs of living in their major cities. Seattle’s median home prices hover around $800,000, while Oslo’s reach about $700,000. This makes housing affordability a significant issue for residents in both places.
The rain creates yet another connection. Washington’s rainy climate is legendary, creating those lush, green environments that stay vibrant most of the year. Norway’s precipitation patterns, particularly along its western coast, create a similarly verdant landscape. And during winter, both turn white.
While the constant moisture supports beautiful environments, it comes with challenges.
The rainy, overcast climate and small amount of sunlight during winter also contribute to high rates of Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Between 10-20% of Washingtonians experience SAD symptoms, comparable to the 15-20% of Norwegians affected by similar conditions.
For Washingtonians considering a move abroad, Norway would likely feel quite comfortable. The environmental consciousness, outdoor lifestyle, and progressive values create a cultural environment that would seem familiar.
And those dark winter days? Well, Washingtonians are probably already used to that, too.
Colorado and Switzerland
Both Colorado and Switzerland feature spectacular mountain ranges that have become central to their economies and identities.
The Rocky Mountains in Colorado and the Alps in Switzerland have created robust tourism industries centered around skiing, hiking, and mountain biking. This mountain identity extends beyond just recreation – it shapes how communities function and how people relate to their environment.
Both are also landlocked, something that also influenced their economic profiles – instead of ports, Colorado and Switzerland developed a robust airport connectivity to their neighbors.
Colorado’s focus on outdoor recreation, healthy living, and work-life balance mirrors Swiss cultural values. In both places, you’ll find people who prioritize time spent outdoors and maintain active lifestyles.
The HDI scores reflect these similarities – Colorado at 0.952 and Switzerland at 0.967 – both among the highest in their respective regions.
These regions also share similar challenges. Traffic congestion in mountain corridors creates significant problems in both places. Key routes like I-70 in Colorado and alpine passes in Switzerland face severe bottlenecks, especially during peak tourist seasons, frustrating both locals and visitors.
Both areas experience brain drain in smaller communities. While tech hubs in Denver/Boulder and Zurich/Geneva attract talent and investment, rural towns in both regions struggle with population decline and aging demographics.
Another striking similarity is the development of exclusive playgrounds for the wealthy.
Aspen in Colorado and Zermatt in Switzerland have transformed from mountain villages into international destinations for the ultra-wealthy. These towns often struggle with overcrowding, and maintaining authentic local culture.
I think the biggest difference here is the fact that you can enjoy Switzerland and its scenic views looking through the windows of a train, instead of a Chevrolet Silverado.
Alabama and Albania
Alabama and Albania share more than just similar-sounding names – they have parallel development patterns and cultural values that make them surprisingly comparable. Both regions enjoy warm summers and mild winters, creating similar seasonal rhythms that influence daily life.
Their landscapes blend coastal areas with inland hills and mountains, giving residents of both places a mix of environments to enjoy. Alabama’s Gulf Coast mirrors Albania’s Adriatic shoreline, while the inland areas of both regions feature rolling hills, mountain ranges, and some quite isolated communities.
By the way, check later the history of Theth, a small Albanian village founded by Catholics escaping persecution – it is really interesting.
This geographic diversity has shaped how communities develop and function in both places.
Family forms the center of social life in both Alabama and Albania. Strong family values and deep community connections create similar social patterns. The importance of hospitality also stands out in both cultures – welcoming guests is considered essential.
In economic terms, Alabama offers a lower cost of living compared to many other U.S. states. Similarly, Albania provides affordability within the European context.
Both regions face infrastructure challenges that affect daily life. Rural Alabama struggles with crumbling roads and outdated transportation networks. Albania deals with inconsistent power grids and similar infrastructure issues, particularly in less developed areas.
Youth unemployment presents another shared challenge. Alabama has about 15% youth unemployment, while Albania faces rates around 20%. These high numbers push young people to seek opportunities elsewhere, creating brain drain that affects local economies and communities.
Tourism development offers a path forward for both regions. Alabama is working to attract visitors to its beaches, historical sites, and natural areas. Albania follows a similar strategy, promoting its coastline, mountains, and cultural heritage to international travelers.
One significant difference stands out in religious practices. While Alabama ranks among the most religious states in America, with faith playing a central role in community life, Albania is one of the most irreligious places in Europe.
Utah and Ireland
Well, here probably you think I went crazy – in terms of terrain and geography, these two are quite different.
Utah’s arid, mountainous terrain supports desert and ski-based recreation, whereas Ireland’s lush, temperate landscape fosters coastal and rural tourism.
But Utah and Ireland share surprisingly similar population sizes – Utah at 3.5 million and Ireland at 5 million. And the similarities continue in other fields that might surprise you.
Both places feature strong community bonds and family-centered cultures. In Utah, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints shapes much of the social landscape, while in Ireland, Catholicism has historically played a similar role.
These religious traditions have created communities where family gatherings, shared values, and mutual support are central to daily life.
The emphasis on education in both regions has built impressive university systems. Utah boasts institutions like the University of Utah and Brigham Young University, while Ireland features Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin.
Housing affordability has become a significant challenge in both regions. Rapid growth in Salt Lake City has pushed median home prices to around $550,000, while Dublin faces similar pressures with homes averaging about €450,000. This squeeze has made it increasingly difficult for young families to find affordable housing.
The biggest difference between them? Alcohol. Utah’s strict liquor laws, rooted in religious influence, limit access and make it one of the states with the smallest pub density in the US.
Meanwhile, Ireland’s pub culture stands among the most famous worldwide. The corner pub serves as a community gathering place in Ireland, a social function that church and community centers often fill in Utah.
Puerto Rico and Cyprus: Island Paradises at Cultural Crossroads
Puerto Rico and Cyprus share island characteristics that has positioned them at important crossroads between different worlds. Puerto Rico bridges American and Hispanic cultures, while Cyprus sits between Europe and the Middle East. This geographic positioning has shaped both islands into unique meeting points where different civilizations blend and sometimes clash.
Both islands feature warm climates that have naturally led to tourism-centered economies. The beaches and resort areas in both Puerto Rico and Cyprus attract visitors from around the world – tourism forms the backbone of both economies.
What’s particularly interesting is how both islands navigate complex political situations. Puerto Rico remains in an unresolved territorial status with the United States – neither a state nor an independent nation. Cyprus faces its own division between Greek-speaking and Turkish-speaking regions, creating governance tensions that affect daily life. These political complexities create economic uncertainty in both places.
Their heavy reliance on tourism makes both islands vulnerable to global economic shifts. Puerto Rico’s GDP growth stalled following devastating hurricanes, while Cyprus faced significant challenges recovering from the 2008 financial crisis.
Both islands also offer tax advantages that attract certain businesses and individuals. Cyprus has developed particularly strong tax incentives that make it appealing for international businesses and wealthy individuals looking to optimize their tax situations.
Infrastructure problems trouble both islands. Puerto Rico struggles with an aging power grid that leads to frequent blackouts, especially after storms. Cyprus faces water shortages that disrupt life, particularly during dry summers.
Language creates another parallel – both islands maintain English as a second language alongside their primary tongues. In Puerto Rico, Spanish is the main language, but English is widely spoken due to U.S. ties. In Cyprus, Greek predominates, but English remains common after years as a British protectorate, and some parts of the island still belong to Britain.,
The main differences are two. First, the cultural backgrounds are very distinct. Puerto Rico’s identity combines Taíno and African influences. Cyprus blends primarily Greek culture with Levantine influences.
The second is safety and crime – Puerto Rico is quite dangerous, with an homicide rate of 19.3 per 100,000 residents, while Cyprus has a rate of 0.82 per 100,000 – so in this aspect, Puerto Rico is 23 times more dangerous.
Despite these differences, someone from Puerto Rico visiting Cyprus might feel surprising similarities in the pace of life, the challenges of island living, and the experience of existing at the intersection of different worlds and influences.
Hawaii and Malta: Tropical Paradise Meets Mediterranean Gem
Despite being in completely different parts of the world, these two archipelagos have a past with some curious similarities.
Going back to ancient times, both societies were founded by skilled navigators. The Polynesians who discovered Hawaii were master wayfinders who crossed thousands of miles of open ocean.
Similarly, the Phoenicians who settled Malta were renowned Mediterranean sailors. This maritime heritage remains central to both cultures today.
Both main islands feature stunning coastal scenery with clear waters and pleasant year-round climates that naturally attract visitors. Hawaii maintains an average temperature of around 25°C with 820mm of rainfall, while Malta averages about 18°C with 600mm of rainfall – both creating ideal conditions for beach activities and water sports.
The island lifestyle in both places creates a relaxed pace of life while still providing modern amenities. This balance of leisure and convenience appeals to both residents and visitors.
Cultural celebrations play important roles in both societies. Hawaii’s Merrie Monarch Festival celebrates hula and native traditions, while Malta’s festas honor patron saints with fireworks and processions.
Both places even have their own local sodas. Hawaii has Hawaiian Soda, while Malta has Kinnie, which is, by the way, the best soda I have ever tasted in my life – and I’m not even a big fan of sodas.
Similar challenges also connect these islands. Waste management is a serious issue in both places. Hawaii’s landfills are nearing capacity, while Malta struggles with overflowing dump sites. The limited space combined with high tourist volumes creates significant disposal problems.
Ethnic tensions exist in both locations too. Hawaii faces ongoing issues between Native Hawaiians and mainland transplants over land rights and cultural preservation. Malta experiences friction between locals and growing immigrant communities, particularly from North Africa.
Two major differences stand out between Hawaii and Malta. The first is size – Hawaii’s larger islands support diverse ecosystems and feel relatively empty in many areas, while Malta’s smaller footprint creates a more densely populated, compact lifestyle that can feel crowded.
The second difference is cost – Hawaii holds the unfortunate title of most expensive state in the US (even more than California!), while Malta maintains living costs below the European average.
In fact, southern Europe has some cities and towns with incredible weather, huge life expectancy, amazing quality of life and prices that you would not believe how low they are.
And it was thinking about that I made my MOST IMPORTANT video ever, where I selected the best cities to move to in Europe – it is by far our greatest video, and you can watch it below.
Levi Borba is the founder of expatriateconsultancy.com, creator of the channel The Expat, and best-selling author. You can find him on X here. Some of the links above might be affiliated links, meaning the author earns a small commission if you make a purchase.
