> It must be more expensive for a reason, right?

Sure[1], which is why I periodically check what standard of living I can expect if I emigrate to any of the countries I've visited.

I'm frequently shocked that in places like the US it is considered normal to have a 30yr mortgage (I took a 15 year one, and am on track to pay it of in 10 years).

[1] High level of crime, low level of service delivery, shortage of opportunities for my kids, etc. I'm not blind, you know.