A Reddit user's post comparing a Rs 28 LPA job in Bengaluru, India, with a $60,000 per year job in Philadelphia, USA, has gone viral, sparking a debate on salary conversion and cost of living. The user, an F-1 student on STEM OPT, explained that he came to the US for his master's and secured a job four months ago after a year-long struggle. He was also selected for the H-1B visa, which is currently being processed.
Salary Conversion Misleading
The user noted that while $60K per year converts to over Rs 28 LPA, the higher expenses in the US make the dollar option less lucrative. He expressed a desire to return to India and come back to the US later, fearing being stuck in the H-1B loop.
Social Media Reactions
Most Reddit users advised choosing the Bengaluru job. One user commented, "60k for philly is poverty level. You need at least 110 to 150k. I would choose Bangalore and maybe come to the USA sometime later since you have the H1b." Another added, "Go to India. 60k is poverty in US. 28lpa is generous in India." A third wrote, "No brainer with the 28LPA India. Unless you’ve a decent trajectory/ confidence, you can get this to be 100k+ in the next year or so in the US." However, some suggested staying in the US, noting that the Indian offer may come again.
H-1B Fears and Job Market
The post reflected two key issues: H-1B fears among Indians due to rule changes under the Trump administration, and the US job market, where $60K is considered low, especially in cities like Philadelphia. Users emphasized that a comfortable salary in Philly would be $110K to $150K.
