LIVING EXPENSES

Living Expenses: 
*Housing:     $1,500 – $3,000 per month
*Transportation:     $250 – $ 500 per month ( dependent on car ownership, public transportation, car service) 
*Meals:     $800 – $1,000 per month
*Heath Insurance $400-$600 per month 
*Utilities/Internet/Misc.:   $ 400– $1,200per month. Below are estimated fees for main utilities and are approximate costs ( if applicable to you ) 
*Gas & Electric $200
*Phone $100
*Water $100
*Car insurance $200
*Internet/Cable $200
*Childcare if applicable $500-$800
*Federal and State Income Tax: Exchange Visitor teachers are typically subject to the federal, state, and local taxes where they apply. These tax rates will vary based on the state and location of your employer school, where you are living, as well as your wages. (Average of 10-15% of your gross pay)
Federal income tax averages 7%
State income tax averages 2%
State disability tax averages 1%
FICA Average 8% per salary
There may be additional taxes as well.
Additionally your paycheck may include a deduction for your medical insurance premium ( see details below)
If you choose to join a retirement plan/ if a school offers this benefit, associated fees average 0-8% per paycheck.
Your school should give you a detailed list of all deductions that occur from your paycheck.
Other possible fees: Union Fees – if you elect to join fees may be deducted- Average $450 per year
*Health insurance and evacuation/repatriation insurance are required to participate and must be secured and paid for before starting the program.  Costs are estimated to be between $200 – $400 per month.  Dependent’s insurance premium is slightly higher.
  • Medical benefits of at least $100,000 per accident or illness
  • Repatriation of remains in the amount of $25,000
  • Expenses associated with the medical evacuation of the exchange visitor to his or her home country in the amount of $50,000
  • A deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness.
All teachers are advised to bring at least $2,000 to the U.S. to cover your initial living expenses prior to receiving your first paycheck. Please note that the recommended amount does not include housing expenses.