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

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.

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.