Comments on: Back to India: Dollars, Rupees and the Big Mac Index

By: Anonymous

Anonymous — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 12:58:24 +0000

This post is a bit old, but I will still reply.
I don’t think I agree to the cost defined in this post totally.
I lived in the US for 6 years, worked as S/W engg and finally came back to India last year to settle down. I am married and have one kid.
My total expense never exceeds Rs. 50,000 (1 USD is now 40 Rs; it used to be 47 few months back but INR is getting stronger USD is getting weaker). I lead an above avg life and much better life than in the US. We have full time maid, cook, driver and all necessary amenities that one can expect for a comfortable life and stay at home.
It’s much cheaper and easier to live in India. No offense.
Chill..

By: Anonymous

Anonymous — Fri, 08 Dec 2006 05:26:52 +0000

Thanks a lot Anonymous. Hope to not dissappoint you when you check back again.

By: Anonymous

Anonymous — Fri, 08 Dec 2006 05:25:46 +0000

Thanks a lot for the kind words Shodan. you have brightened my day. You are right. From what i know Mumbai would probably be the most expensive city in India.

By: Anonymous

Anonymous — Wed, 06 Dec 2006 23:03:48 +0000

Thanks for the ground level intel – back of the envelope calculations like the one you have spelled out, although having known problems which you point out (like different tastes / different city living costs / not factoring in inflation etc), are the best tool to get any sense of whats needed !!

Will be looking back to read more of your experiences as a returning desi !! Keep up the good work.

By: Anonymous

Anonymous — Wed, 06 Dec 2006 22:04:13 +0000

Great post.

assuming you own a home and a car, you can rent a decent home for $600-700/month in Chennai

And if you don’t, expect major spike. Especially if you are planning to relocate to Mumbai. Last heard $165,000 – 225,000 range bought you a decent-sized apartment. Rental route could cost you $800 – 1200 a month. Not a whole lot different from middle American cities.