NRI couple, with a net worth of Rs 42 crore, asks how much money is needed to 'retire' in India. Netizens react: 'There is no end...'

Amidst the constant online glorification of high-stress careers, 18-hour workdays, and the never-ending pursuit of success, a grounded and sincere post by a tech-savvy couple in their mid-thirties has struck a chord with many. Their reflections on quality of life and the true meaning of financial freedom are inspiring a wave of introspection among fellow professionals.

This couple, who have spent nearly a decade and a half in the United States, are seriously considering a return to India—not for career advancement or job relocation, but to redefine the way they live. Unlike the usual stories of NRIs returning to juggle new roles or businesses, their intention is rooted in simplicity and intentional living.

Writing anonymously on the "Return to India" subreddit, they shared that they are in their mid-30s, raising a young child, and have called the U.S. home for about 15 years. Their life has revolved around work in the American tech ecosystem, where they’ve built not just careers but also considerable financial stability. Now, however, they find themselves drawn toward a slower, more deliberate life—one that prioritizes family, balance, and time over professional hustle.

They disclosed a net worth of approximately $5.5 million, including a $3.6 million investment portfolio and $1.9 million in property. Both are U.S. citizens holding Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status, giving them the flexibility to live and work in either country. Despite their financial cushion, they aren't rushing the decision. They admit that moving back is still a distant possibility, but one they’re examining seriously.

Rather than diving headfirst into new jobs upon relocating, they plan to take a breather, reflect, and only pursue work that aligns with their passions. Their primary concern isn't status or salary, but how to make life more meaningful for themselves and their child. The post ended with a thoughtful question: what financial figure is enough to step away from full-time work in India and live comfortably while raising a child?

This candid reflection sparked a lively conversation among users. Some suggested using a simple formula—33 times one’s annual spending invested in reliable assets—to calculate the right corpus for early retirement. Others proposed adjusting U.S. annual expenses by a factor of 25 to estimate what one might need to maintain a similar lifestyle in India, accounting for differences in purchasing power.

A few weighed in with location-specific advice. One commenter who had recently spent time in Mumbai’s upscale Bandra area mentioned that a monthly budget of at least ₹2 lakh, not including rent, would be necessary to live well. Renting a spacious apartment alone could cost upwards of ₹1.25 lakh per month. They added that younger children adapt more easily to the move, but older ones might struggle. The commenter suggested that it takes six months to a year to truly adjust back to Indian life—and warned that relatives and acquaintances may frequently seek financial help.

Another user advised leveraging real estate: purchasing three or four properties outright, living in one, and generating passive income from the others. If chosen wisely, this strategy could potentially eliminate the need for any future employment altogether.

Another quipped, "There is no end. No amount of money will be enough. It’s always less..."

This couple’s story stands out for its emotional honesty. It's not about escaping the rat race with millions in the bank but about reassessing values, making conscious choices, and understanding that true wealth lies in time, peace, and presence.