4BHK in Gurgaon vs 6-room penthouse in NYC: X user's comparison of what $3 million can buy is viral

The comparison generated a range of reactions, with Gurjot Ahluwalia eventually concluding that India’s real estate is a 'scam.'

A recent post comparing real estate options in Gurgaon, India, and New York City, USA, has fueled discussions online about India’s property market prices. Management consultant Gurjot Ahluwalia shared a side-by-side view on X (formerly Twitter) of the types of homes a $3 million (around Rs 25 crore) budget could secure in each city.

Ahluwalia’s post suggested that a buyer could obtain a 4BHK or 5BHK apartment in DLF Magnolias, an upscale residential complex in Gurgaon, India, known for its high-end amenities, including a swimming pool, spa, gym, green spaces, and covered parking.

According to Ahluwalia, this amount in New York City could alternatively secure a six-room penthouse with sweeping views of Manhattan’s iconic skyline, an impressive offering in one of the world's most costly cities. He asked users, “Which $3M apartment would you prefer?” while highlighting the disparities between real estate in India and other developed nations.

Which $3M apartment would you prefer?pic.twitter.com/jNlPCm7fjK
Gurjot Ahluwalia (@gurjota) October 27, 2024

The comparison generated a range of reactions, with Ahluwalia eventually concluding that India’s real estate is a “scam.” Many users on X echoed his sentiment, expressing concern over India’s property pricing. One commenter speculated that “it is a bubble which is going to burst one day,” and called the market for apartments, particularly in metro areas like Gurgaon, “crazy.”

Others brought up the value disparity between properties in India and the US. A user stated that “with $1 million, you can buy a mansion in the US and live like a royal,” contrasting that amount with Indian real estate, which they termed “daylight robbery.” Another commenter argued that for $3 million, one could purchase “one of the best villas in Dubai,” possibly even two.

Several responses also focused on the shortcomings of Gurgaon’s real estate offerings. One user, referencing the DLF Magnolias, said the price per square foot in Gurgaon was excessive, even compared to major global cities such as Dubai, Singapore, and New York, yet argued that “facilities are like [those in] African countries” and added that tax burdens are disproportionately high. The user further shared their decision to relocate from Gurgaon to Chandigarh, citing the high costs as a key factor.

"During my recent USA visit in October 2024, when I inquired about the cost of a smart 3bhk bungalow with courtyard and beautiful lawn in suburb of Washington DC with direct metro connection to Downtown. Price in INR = 4 to 5 CR
Indian real estate pricing is madly illogical," another user remarked.

A user added, "Gurgaon real estate is so lame."