Moving to Germany?

So what attracts me to Germany? Well first of all I've been there (Dusseldorf) and I liked it. Granted I was on vacation so I'm not sure what it'd be like to actually live there. Second, they have one of the strongest economies in Europe/world so coming from the US, I feel like I'd be economically able to maintain a similar lifestyle. I've been to other European countries where I'd consider living as well but the job opportunities don't seem as great. (Italy, Spain, France)

I'm 24, I have a background in technology (finishing Master's degree, considering PhD -either in US or Europe-) and have some teaching/research work experience. US citizen. I graduate this year. Other than English I'm fluent in Spanish (not sure if this helps in Germany but who knows) and I speak some French/Italian. I'm quick on picking up foreign languages as it's something that interests me a lot so I don't see a problem learning German within 6-12 months.

I've read that given the current European job market it's very difficult for companies to justify hiring foreign workers unless they possess extraordinary job skills that other Europeans don't have. Makes sense. But what is considered extraordinary? A master's degree, a PhD? Advanced university degrees AND a lot of work experience? One or the other?

Obviously I see how the more experience/education you have the better your chances of getting a job, but my question is what is enough? Is it difficult to obtain entry-level professional work?

Also, what are the salaries like? Are they comparable to jobs in the US relative to the industry?

Some may disagree, but to me it seems like cost of living is a little more affordable than in the US. Apartments aren't ridiculously high (like in Miami, $1,500/month for something decent), food is very cheap in the grocery store (is it government subsidized? I couldn't believe the prices - all across Europe), transportation is good, healthcare, etc...

I know some may argue that with all the benefits that taxes are higher, salaries lower but it seems to work out pretty well over there. (Anyone living there disagree?)

How are the people? I was only in Germany for a few days, nonetheless in Dusseldorf (seemed like a medium sized city, I'd like to live somewhere like Frankfurt or Berlin) but the people seemed okay, not super friendly but not mean. (I was visiting a german friend so I don't think it was due to the fact that I don't speak German very well as she was my translator). I ask because I've noticed when visiting multiple cities in a country people can be very different depending where you are! (Think: Florida vs. NYC!! -_-)

I know Frankfurt is known for being an international finance hub with a lot of English speakers, so would this be a good city to transition to while I learn German? Would it be difficult to find a job with limited German language skills? I'd like to work in the business/tech sector. Either for a company or teaching in a University.

Another thing I'm considering is getting a job with an American company and applying for a transfer to somewhere in Europe. (If this is the case, doesn't necessarily have to be Germany,...as long as I have a decent job I could see myself almost anywhere). This is probably the most common route, but has anyone found a job directly with a German or other European company?


Also, in the event that I do obtain my PhD... has anyone had to make the decision to study in the US or Europe? Is it difficult to enter academia in Europe with an American degree?


Thanks for reading!! Thank for your help!!