
Last Updated:
A discussion has been triggered by Anish Sengupta’s LinkedIn post, contrasting professional life in the USA, India and Dubai.
The approach emphasises cultural variables, taxes and job security.(Representative Image)
The middle class in India has been voicing their concerns about rising taxes, declining disposable earnings, and a growing desire to pursue better opportunities on social media in recent times. Since direct and indirect taxes are still rising, many professionals are starting to wonder if it would be financially viable to remain in India in the long run.
A Bengaluru-based techie became intrigued by this and questioned whether India was getting too costly for its talent and whether the UAE and the USA were better options for happiness and wealth creation. He conducted some research and compared, beyond wage figures, what it means to live and work in India, Dubai, and the US.
Anish Sengupta started a spirited discussion on LinkedIn by contrasting what life is like for professionals making good salaries in the USA, India, and Dubai in a world where high earnings often come with similarly high prices.
Alongside a humorous yet perceptive “Happiness vs. Wealth” chart, Sengupta’s piece explored the emotional and financial return on investment of working in these three locations.
Below is a breakdown of what Sengupta shared, along with key insights from the image that’s now gaining traction.
Job Security & Growth – Stability vs Opportunity
High-paying jobs in the banking and technology sectors are available in the USA. Particularly for H1B holders, it presents difficulties such as fierce competition, possible layoffs, and uncertainty around visas. India has a thriving IT, fintech, and startup job industry with higher job security and robust labour regulations. Although most jobs in Dubai are contract-based, which reduces security, the tax-free economy offers expanding opportunities in the tech, real estate, and financial sectors.
Taxation & Benefits – Who Keeps More?
Professionals in the USA pay taxes at a rate of 25–35 per cent, on top of other costs like medical care. Benefits like the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF), gratuities, and reasonably priced healthcare offer some respite from India’s 20–30 per cent tax rate. Despite its reliance on private healthcare and lack of pension plans, Dubai stands out for having zero income taxes.
Cost of Living – Where Does it Go?
With an average monthly rent of $2,500, living expenses in the USA are exorbitant, especially in areas like New York City and San Francisco. Luxury 1BHK rentals in India start at about Rs 50K per month, making it a more cost-effective place to live. City 1BHK rents in Dubai are 8,000 AED per month, making living expenses affordable. Dubai has the most potential for savings, followed by India, while the USA comes in last.
Cultural Impact – Home vs Foreign Land?
The USA offers exposure to a global audience and a work-life balance, but it might be difficult because of the high cost of healthcare and the stress of visas. Although India has a hustle culture and long work hours, it also offers festivals, strong family ties, and an inexpensive lifestyle. Dubai promises a luxurious lifestyle and the opportunity to amass a fortune, yet it lacks opportunities for foreigners to obtain citizenship and might feel transitory.
Final Verdict – Where Should You Work?
Sengupta concludes that personal priorities determine the best place to work:
– For luxury and tax-free income: Dubai
– For stability in employment and family life: India
– For international professional advancement: USA
He asks an upfront yet impactful question at the end of his post: “Where would YOU choose to work?”
- Location :
Delhi, India, India