I've used a US keyboard layout for years, at least since I started my first .NET job in 2007. I write most normal text in my native layout but use shortcut keys to switch quickly between when I'm doing any coding. The benefits are enormous, I mean the semicolon is just a key right there! Brackets, also right there! Curly braces are just a shift away and forward/backslash are also just a keystroke away.

A few years back I used a MS Natural Keyboard with US layout...it was glorious. I need to get one like that again soon :[

I've gotten some weird reactions from fellow coders when I tell them about this. Most think that it's super weird and unusable, especially since the keyboard layout is different from the physical layout, the keys don't reflect what's output to the screen. Touch typing anyone? I've also met a few that do the same and usually high fives ensue.