Why does the United States enjoy a higher standard of living than many other countries?

The standard of living in the United States is high by the standards that most economists use, and for many decades throughout the 20th century, the United States was recognized as having the highest standard of living in the world. Per capita income is high but also less evenly distributed than in most other developed countries; as a result, the United States fares particularly well in measures of average material well being that do not place weight on equality aspects.

The standard of living in the United States is high by the standards that most economists use, and formany decades throughout the 20th century, the United States was ... In 2007, Americans enjoyed more cars and radios per capita than any other ... which translated into higher living standards for the American population.