FAQ

Common questions

Is PPP the same as an exchange rate?

No. PPP measures relative purchasing power. Market FX rates move with capital flows and policy; PPP is better for comparing living standards.

Where does the PPP data come from?

Country PPP factors and years are based on the World Bank indicator PA.NUS.PPP (PPP conversion factor, GDP). Countries without a valid PPP value are hidden from the calculator.

How accurate are tax, rent, commute, and food figures?

They are illustrative country-level percentages for a first-pass comparison. Actual costs vary by city, lifestyle, household size, and tax rules.

How is “better option” decided?

We show leftover % of salary for both countries, then recommend the side with higher leftover purchasing power after converting leftovers to international dollars with PPP. Near ties are labeled “Roughly similar.”

Disclaimer

This tool is for education and planning only. It is not financial, tax, immigration, or employment advice. Always verify local figures before making decisions.