High pay, hard choices: Indian techie in US sparks debate on social media

As Indian professionals gain global exposure, salary comparisons between India and overseas markets are becoming a common topic of debate. One such discussion was seen online, highlighting the dilemma faced by senior professionals with over a decade of experience who must choose between financial growth and familial stability.

A professional with 15 years of experience, a family of three, and a single income stream. The choice: continue earning around $150,000 (₹1.35 cr) annually overseas, or return to India for a ₹32 LPA.

The post, by the user ‘soldierondutypro’ on Reddit, sparked an online debate.

Many comments pointed out that while overseas salaries often translate into higher gross income, living costs, taxes, healthcare, and education expenses can significantly reduce disposable income.

In contrast, a ₹32 LPA salary in India offers predictable expenses, family support systems, and lower day-to-day costs, though savings potential may be limited in metro cities.

Public reactions: Experience, country and cost of living

Responses were swift and varied, highlighting different aspects of the decision:

Some argued that ₹32 LPA was low for someone with 15+ years of experience — especially in tech roles in metro cities of India, suggesting that the individual should continue with or seek higher overseas offers.

 “You take the US role bruh. There are lots of US companies you can switch in 1 or 2 years,” said a comment..

Others focused on the number of shares (ESOPs) included in the Indian offer, noting that it could meaningfully increase total compensation if negotiated effectively, though some users disputed the flexibility of stock negotiations. 

One comment pointed to the practical reality of living costs abroad, sharing a detailed breakdown suggesting that even $150,000 in the US might not be enough  for a family of three, especially in certain cities with high rents and transportation costs.

Another comment broke down the ₹32 LPA salary into expenses, pointing out that the user can easily save around ₹42,000 a month with an upper middle class lifestyle, with savings of ₹1-2 cr in 10 years time.