An NRI couple has drawn widespread attention online after sharing the reasons behind their decision to leave the United States and return to India nearly two decades after building their life abroad. Now settled in India with their twins, the couple said that rising healthcare expenses in the US had left them financially drained and emotionally exhausted, ultimately prompting them to make the move.
Viral video explains financial strain of US healthcare
In an Instagram video that has since gone viral, the couple detailed their struggles with the American healthcare system. Despite holding health insurance, they said access to doctors and medical services felt “slow, expensive and stressful”. They explained that insurance benefits only came into play after they met a high annual deductible.
“For anyone who’s never dealt with the US healthcare system, here’s a little context,” they wrote. “Before insurance even helps, you have to hit your yearly deductible. Every visit, every test – you pay out of pocket first.”
According to them, they were forced to spend around $14,000 annually before their insurance coverage even began. The most affordable insurance option available — covering only the two adults — cost $1,600 per month, with a deductible of $15,000, not including expenses for their children.
‘Even simple concerns became a burden’
The couple said that routine medical issues turned into substantial financial stress. They also noted that without a family support system in the US, parenting became increasingly isolating. The emotional and financial pressures grew to a point where they began reassessing their long-term future abroad.
They emphasised that their choice was not made in haste but evolved after years of rising costs and a healthcare system that felt inaccessible despite being insured.
Choosing India for stability and support
Eventually, the couple decided to return to India, where they said healthcare felt “more humane and affordable”. They highlighted that appointments were easier to get, medical consultations cost significantly less, and the presence of family support made parenting less overwhelming.
“India isn’t perfect,” they acknowledged in the video. “But here healthcare doesn’t feel like a luxury. We have access to good doctors, faster care, and a support system that actually feels accessible.”
They added that the move was not an escape from the US but a conscious decision to seek “balance and peace of mind” — something they realised they had been missing.
Reactions pour in as video crosses 1.6 million views
The viral video has garnered over 1.6 million views, drawing hundreds of supportive and reflective comments. Many users resonated with the couple’s reasoning, agreeing that the US healthcare system can be a formidable challenge, especially for young families without local support.
One user commented, “Welcome to India. We lived for 17 years in the U.S. and returned three months ago. It’s been an adjustment, but being close to family makes it worthwhile.”
Another wrote, “I want to move back to India after two decades in the US but haven’t found the courage yet. Kudos to you — wishing you a happy new chapter.”
A third user shared their own family’s experience: “My daughter moved to Florida but returned to the UK when she realised she would get only six weeks of maternity leave. It was a blessing because we could help her. Wishing you and your family all the best.”
Conclusion
The couple’s story has reopened discussions on the long-debated India vs. US lifestyle choice among NRIs, especially concerning healthcare accessibility, cost of living and family support. While the transition back to India comes with its own challenges, the family says the move has given them a renewed sense of stability and emotional comfort.