The internet trends with new topics every week. This week’s hot take is the viral post by the Bengaluru Techie, who busted open the raw truths about living, earning, and settling in countries like India, the USA, and Dubai. He illustrated the differences for professionals earning decent incomes in each region through a vibrant comparison board.
Anish Sengupta – a technology lead at Carelon Global Situations published a LinkedIn post , comparing and contrasting the various factors between the USA, Dubai, and India analyzing what makes them appealing for a happier and wealthy lifestyle. The post gained comments like Apt comparison and Excellent analysis.
The Verdict of his breakdown will enlighten you to make the right decision if you are considering moving abroad for study or work.
Job Security & Growth
USA – the country endeared as a land of dreams, with its well-developed market, offers high-paying roles in growing fields like tech and finance. However, with major companies like Google downsizing, the fear of layoffs and uncertainty about job security, especially among immigrants with H1B visas, is exponentially growing, considering the new government rules.
India has a developing market with job opportunities in IT, fintech, and startups. This allows individuals to have job security, and the stronger labor laws ensure the same.
Dubai on the other hand, is renowned for its Tax-free economy. The country presents growing job opportunities in finance, tech & real estate. Despite the promising career, most of the jobs in Dubai are contract-based which forces an individual to switch jobs every 2 – 3 years.
Taxation and Benefits
In the USA, for a working adult, the tax ranges from 25 -35% in addition to healthcare, insurance, and other expenses. Notably, there are no social security benefits for H1 B Visa holders.
In India, the tax ranges from 20-30%, along with benefits like EPF, and gratuity. Also, India has a public healthcare system which makes it affordable for the middle and lower classes.
Dubai stands out of the crowd with its tax-free economy. Nevertheless, there is no pension or benefits and they mostly rely on private healthcare.
Cost of Living & Savings
At the end of the month, no matter how big bucks you earn, it all comes down to two things – your spending and savings.
In the USA, even if you earn a substantial income, much of it tends to vanish due to high expenses such as housing, transportation, and food. This is especially true in bustling cities like New York City and Seattle, where monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment can reach up to $2,500.
In contrast, India offers much more affordable housing. A luxury 1BHK apartment costs around 50,000 rupees (approximately $600). Although food and transportation costs vary by city, they are generally lower than in the USA.
In Dubai, the monthly rent for a 1BHK apartment is approximately 8,000 AED (around $2,200), with other living expenses being relatively moderate.
When it comes to saving, India is notable for its low cost of living, making significant savings possible. Dubai comes next in line, while the USA is the least favorable option for savings.
Cultural Impact & Lifestyle
If you are looking to broaden your career prospects on a global level, then the USA is the right match for you. Their work-life balance and exposure to advanced tools can be an added perk. However, the expensive healthcare and Visa challenges can be stressful.
India, on the other hand, is suitable for an affordable lifestyle surrounded by family and friends. Although it comes as a package deal with Hustle culture and prolonged working hours.
Dubai offers a high-end luxurious lifestyle and wealth accumulation with a Tax-free salary option which is the ideal green pasture. But it feels like a mirage due to the lack of citizenship options for expats.
Final Verdict,
Sengupta, the Bengaluru Techie, concludes that each country has its own perks, and one can choose their destination abroad based on individual needs. Dubai’s tax-free and luxurious lifestyle is suitable for your financial needs. India is your best choice for job stability, and if you prefer a big family life. The USA is the standalone option for global career growth.
Which one would you choose ?
