Salary disparities among regions at tier1 and tier 2 companies

Hey there

Yes, what you’ve noticed is unfortunately true and a common frustration. Salaries in consulting and many other industries are typically adjusted based on local cost of living and market norms, not on a global standard, even for the same roles at the same firms. So a consultant at McKinsey in India or Egypt may earn significantly less than one in the US, despite similar hours and expectations.

It is seen as unfair, especially in a globally interconnected world, but business firms claim it's a matter of purchasing power and local wage structures. Having said that, skills have no frontiers, and if you are mobile, relocation sometime may close the gap.

Happy to assist you with a coaching if you'd like to talk over your possibilities or get advice on how to present your profile

Best
Alessa

Yes, that is frustrating. 

It will be even more frustrating when you will be staffed on international teams and working with people at the same seniority who are pain significantly more than you. 

But unfortunately, you can't do much about it. At least not at the moment. 

Cost of living does influence the disposable income that people have though. In that sense, I know lots of people who have high incomes in consulting but because of where they live and how they spend it acutally put aside a lot less than people who make significantly less than them. 

Best,
Cristian

US salaries can be up to 2x (or more) compared to other regions.

Why? Two big reasons: higher cost of living and clients with deeper pockets.

Willingness to pay defines how much firms can afford to pay you—and in some geographies, clients pay a premium.

Best,

Alberto

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