The United States and India are two diverse countries, distinct allure, and offerings make them wonderful. Notably, a prominent factor lies in the differing prices of various products and services. Contemplating what items might be more cost-effective in the USA compared to India?
Whether you’re considering a trip to the USA or heading there for educational pursuits, exploring shopping opportunities in the USA can unlock incredible deals. Here we will explore the top 15 things that are generally more affordable in the USA than in India.
This blog is tailor-made just for you. We’ve meticulously curated an extensive list of categories that present exceptional value when purchased in the USA.
Overview of Top Things that are Cheaper to Buy in the USA than in India
| Item | Average Price in India | Average Price in USA |
| Apple (iPhone) Products | 20-30% higher | 20-30% lower |
| Clothes/Beddings | 30-40% higher | 30-40% lower |
| Bath Towels | 50-60% higher | 50-60% lower |
| Home Appliances | 10-20% higher | 10-20% lower |
| Michael Kors Products | 40-50% higher | 40-50% lower |
| Branded Perfumes | 30-40% higher | 30-40% lower |
| Branded Watches | 20-30% higher | 20-30% lower |
| Nutrition Supplements | 20-30% higher | 20-30% lower |
| Laptops | 10-20% higher | 10-20% lower |
| Men’s Belt | 20-30% higher | 20-30% lower |
| Video Games | 10-20% higher | 10-20% lower |
| Cosmetics | 20-30% higher | 20-30% lower |
| Sports Equipment | 10-20% higher | 10-20% lower |
| Cameras and Photography Equipment | 20-30% higher | 20-30% lower |
| Used Cars | 10-20% higher | 10-20% lower |
N.B: The prices may vary depending on the specific brand, model, and seller/retailer.
Some Price Comparison of Products Between USA and India
Apple Products
Apple products are typically 20-30% cheaper in the USA than in India. This is due to some factors, including import duties and taxes, which are higher in India.
Additionally, Apple has a more established presence in the USA, which allows it to offer lower prices.
| Product | Price in the USA (USD) Approx. | Price in India (INR) Approx. |
| iPhone 15 Plus | $899 | INR 89,900 |
| MacBook Air M1 | $999 | INR 99,900 |
| iPad Air | $599 | INR 54,900 |
| Apple Watch Series 8 | $399 | INR 45,900 |
Clothes/Beddings
Clothes and bedding are also cheaper in the USA than in India. Here, branded and designer clothes are available at much cheaper prices in the USA. This is due to several factors, including lower production costs in the USA and a more competitive retail environment.
You will see that everything you need is far less expensive in the USA than it is elsewhere. It should be noted that the bedding is somewhat large, therefore you will need to place an online order.
| Item | Price in the USA (USD) Approx. | Price in India (INR) Approx. |
| T-shirt | $10-$50 | INR 600-5,000 |
| Jeans | $20-$50 | INR 1,500-5,000 |
| Bed Sheet Set | $30-$50 | INR 2,000-6,000 |
| Comforter | $50-$100 | INR 4,000-8,000 |
Bath Towels
A bath towel may seem like a small item, but it’s a useful item. In the United States, bath towels generally come at a lower price compared to those in India.
Several reasons contribute to this contrast, such as reduced production expenses in the USA and a highly competitive retail landscape.
| Item | Price in the USA (USD) Approx. | Price in India (INR) Approx. |
| Bath Towel | $10-$20 | INR 500-1,500 |
| Hand Towel | $5-$10 | INR 400-1,000 |
| Washcloth | $3-$5 | INR 250-500 |
Home Appliances
In today’s digital age, electronic devices have become essential for everyone. If you’re considering purchasing these items, the USA is an advantageous destination. Ever wondered why these seemingly costly electronic products are more budget-friendly in the USA compared to India?
The primary reason behind this discrepancy is the substantial competition within the US electronic market. This high level of competition consistently pushes down the prices of these items, making them more accessible to consumers.
Home appliances are typically 10-20% cheaper in the USA than in India. This is because of lower production costs, less tax in the USA, and a more competitive retail environment.
| Item | Price in the USA (USD) Approx. | Price in India (INR) Approx. |
| Refrigerator | $500-$1000 | INR 25,000-1,00,000 |
| Washing Machine | $300-$800 | INR 20,000-50,000 |
| Dishwasher | $300-$600 | INR 15,000-40,000 |
| Microwave Oven | $100-$200 | INR 10,000-20,000 |
| Vacuum Cleaner | $100-$200 | INR 5,000-10,000 |
Michael Kors Products
Michael Kors is a well-known fashion brand that offers a wide range of products, primarily in the luxury fashion and accessories industry. Some of the common Michael Kors products are Handbags, Watches, Sunglasses, Shoes, Accessories, Jewelry, Eyewear, etc.
Michael Kors products are typically 40-50% cheaper in the USA than in India. This is due to several factors, including lower tax costs in the USA and a more competitive retail environment.
| Item | Price in the USA (USD) Approx. | Price in India (INR) Approx. |
| Handbag | $200-$500 | INR 10,000-25,000 |
| Wallet | $100-$200 | INR 5,000-10,000 |
| Sunglasses | $100-$200 | INR 5,000-10,000 |
Branded Perfumes
Admiring the captivating aroma of branded perfumes is something many cherish. For aficionados seeking opulent fragrances from various renowned brands, the USA offers an opportunity to acquire them at more affordable rates.
Typically, these coveted perfumes are available at a 30-40% discount compared to prices in India. Therefore, if scouting for budget-friendly buys in the USA, including branded perfumes on your shopping list is a must.
| Item | Price in the USA (USD) Approx. | Price in India (INR) Approx. |
| Chanel No. 5 | $100-$200 | INR 5,000-10,000 |
| Dior J’adore | $100-$200 | INR 5,000-10,000 |
| Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium | $100-$200 | INR 5,000-10,000 |
| Tom Ford Oud Wood | $100-$200 | INR 5,000-10,000 |
| Armani Code Profumo | $100-$200 | INR 5,000-10,000 |
Branded Watches
Watches bearing popular brands present a compelling choice, notably more affordable in the United States compared to prices in India. Wearing a watch not only complements one’s style but also signifies attention to detail.
Branded timepieces come at a discounted rate of 20-30% when purchased in the USA in contrast to their prices in India. Exploring the official websites of various renowned watch brands allows for a convenient and accurate price check, enabling hassle-free comparisons.
| Item | Price in the USA (USD) Approx. | Price in India (INR) Approx. |
| Rolex Submariner | $10,000-$15,000 | INR 9,40,000-14,00,000 |
| Omega Speedmaster | $5,000-$10,000 | INR 7,79,000-9,00,000 |
| Tag Heuer Aquaracer | $2,000-$3,000 | INR 1,34,000-1,80,000 |
| Tissot Gentleman | $500-$700 | INR 78,500-90,000 |
| Seiko Prospex Diver | $300-$500 | INR 66,000-75,000 |
Nutrition Supplements
For individuals with limited time for cooking, these supplements offer a fantastic way to restore your energy levels effectively. Interestingly, nutritional supplements tend to be around 20-30% more cost-effective in the United States compared to India.
This variance is influenced by several factors, such as low tax, reduced production expenses in the USA, and a highly competitive market for retail sales.
Here is a table comparing the prices of some popular nutrition supplements in the USA and India:
| Item | Price in the USA (USD) Approx. | Price in India (INR) Approx. |
| Whey Protein Powder | $10-$30 | INR 1,500-2,500 |
| Creatine Monohydrate | $10-$20 | INR 600-1,500 |
| Fish Oil | $10-$20 | INR 600-1,500 |
| Multivitamins | $10-$20 | INR 600-1,500 |
| BCAAs | $10-$20 | INR 600-1,500 |
Laptops
In the United States, numerous stores offer branded laptops at highly affordable rates. You have the convenience of exploring their online platforms to gather precise details.
Comparatively, laptops are priced 10-20% lower in the USA than in India. This variance can be attributed to various factors such as low tax in the USA and a highly competitive retail landscape.
The prices of some popular laptops in the USA and India:
| Item | Price in the USA (USD) Approx. | Price in India (INR) Approx. |
| MacBook Air M1 | $999 | INR 99,900 |
| Dell XPS 13 | $999 | INR 99,900 |
| HP Spectre x360 | $1,299 | INR 1,29,900 |
| Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 | $1,299 | INR 1,29,900 |
| Asus ZenBook 14 | $799 | INR 79,900 |
Men’s Belt
Discover top-notch brand belts effortlessly at incredibly affordable prices from the finest brand outlets across the USA. Before visiting the physical store, it’s advantageous to explore the official website. This way, you unlock access to remarkable discounts on a wide array of belts.
Typically, men’s belts are priced 20-30% lower in the USA in comparison to India. This pricing discrepancy owes itself to several factors, encompassing low tax within the USA and a highly competitive retail landscape.
The prices of some popular men’s belts in the USA and India:
| Item | Price in the USA (USD) Approx. | Price in India (INR) Approx. |
| Leather Belt | $20-$50 | INR 1,500-5,000 |
| Casual Belt | $20-$30 | INR 1,000-1,500 |
| Canvas Belt | $10-$20 | INR 500-1,000 |
Video Games
Video games are a very popular form of entertainment nowadays. The USA is far ahead of India in this sector. So, video games are 10-20% cheaper in the USA than in India.
| Item | Price in the USA (USD) Approx. | Price in India (INR) Approx. |
| PlayStation 5 Console | $499 | INR 49,990 |
| Xbox Series X Console | $499 | INR 49,990 |
| Nintendo Switch OLED Model | $349 | INR 34,990 |
| Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II | $69.99 | INR 4,999 |
| FIFA 23 | $59.99 | INR 3,999 |
Cosmetics
India imports most of its cosmetics products from other countries. So, its price increases due to tax. Generally, cosmetics are 20-30% cheaper in the USA than in India.
| Item | Price in the USA (USD) Approx. | Price in India (INR) Approx. |
| Maybelline New York Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation | $10.99 | INR 899 |
| L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara | $8.99 | INR 899 |
| MAC Cosmetics Powder Kiss Lipstick | $15.50 | INR 1,350 |
| NARS Cosmetics Radiant Creamy Concealer | $25.00 | INR 2,150 |
| Urban Decay Naked All-Nighter Long Lasting Setting Spray | $30.00 | INR 2,350 |
Sports Equipment
Branded sports gear from labels like Nike, Puma, and Adidas tends to come at a high cost in India. However, these same products are available at significantly reduced prices with attractive discounts in the United States.
Below is a comparison table showcasing the pricing disparities between the USA and India:
| Item | Price in the USA (USD) Approx. | Price in India (INR) Approx. |
| Basketball | $20-$30 | INR 1200-1800 |
| Soccer Ball | $10-$20 | INR 600-1200 |
| Cricket Bat | $50-$100 | INR 3000-6000 |
| Badminton Racquet | $20-$30 | INR 1200-1800 |
| Tennis Racquet | $50-$100 | INR 3000-6000 |
Cameras and Photography Equipment
The United States has a highly competitive market for cameras and photography equipment. Numerous manufacturers and retailers compete for customers, which results in competitive pricing.
The USA has a strong e-commerce presence, which encourages retailers to offer competitive prices to attract online shoppers.
| Item | Price in the USA (USD) Approx. | Price in India (INR) Approx. |
| Entry-Level Cameras | $300-$400 | INR 50,000-2,00,000 |
| High-End Cameras | $800–$1000 | INR 79,000-4,00,000 |
Used Cars
The USA has a well-established market for used cars, with a large supply of pre-owned vehicles.
Cars in the USA tend to depreciate rapidly in value during their first few years, leading to more affordable prices for used models. This competition helps keep prices competitive.
| Item | Price in the USA (USD) Approx. | Price in India (INR) Approx. |
| Economy Cars | $5,000-$10,000 | Starts from 6/7 lakh (Avg.) |
| Mid-Range Vehicles | $15,000-$30,000 | Starts from 10/12 lakh (Avg.) |
| Luxury Cars | $30,000-$1,00,000 | Starts from 20/25 lakh (Avg.) |
Considerations Before Shopping in the USA
Before you embark on your shopping spree in the USA, there are several important considerations to keep in mind to make the most of your experience. Here’s a handy checklist of things to think about:
Travel Documentation
Ensure that your passport and visa are up to date and valid for your entire stay in the USA. Also, check visa requirements for tourists and any restrictions that may apply.
Shopping Apps
Download shopping apps and coupon apps that can help you find deals and discounts in stores and online.
Sales Tax
Each state in the USA has its own sales tax rate, which can range from 0% to 10%. Be sure to factor in the sales tax rate when budgeting for your shopping trip.
Credit Cards
Most credit cards accepted in the USA have a foreign transaction fee, which is typically 3% of the purchase price. Be sure to check with your credit card company to see if they have a foreign transaction fee and, if so, what it is.
Currency Exchange
You can exchange your currency for US dollars at banks, currency exchange bureaus, and airports. Be sure to compare rates before exchanging your currency to get the best deal.
Prices
Prices in the USA are generally lower than in India, but it is important to compare prices from different retailers before you make a purchase.
Quality
The quality of products in the USA is generally high, but there are always exceptions. Be sure to read reviews of products before you buy them to get an idea of their quality.
Returns and Exchanges
Most retailers in the USA have generous return and exchange policies, but it is important to check the specific policy of the retailer before you make a purchase.
Shopping Seasons
Timing matters. Plan your shopping during major sales seasons like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and end-of-season clearance sales to get the best discounts.
Safety
Be aware of your surroundings when shopping in the USA and take precautions to protect yourself from theft and other crimes.
Tips for shopping in the USA
- Make a list of the things you want to buy before you go. This will help you stay on budget and avoid impulse purchases.
- Shop around and compare prices from different retailers. You can use online price comparison websites or simply visit different stores to compare prices.
- Use coupons and promo codes. Many websites and apps offer coupons and promo codes for retailers in the USA.
- Consider buying online. Online retailers often offer lower prices than brick-and-mortar stores. Additionally, you can often find free shipping and other promotions when you shop online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, some items like healthcare and certain food products may be more expensive in the USA.
Electronics retailers, both online and in physical stores, offer competitive prices. Check popular retailers for the latest deals.
Yes, you can bring back items to India, but be aware of customs regulations and duty fees.
Yes, gadgets are generally cheaper in America than in India. The USA is a much larger market than India, which means that manufacturers can produce gadgets in larger quantities. The US government also reduced taxes on gadget items. This results in economies of scale, which further reduces the cost of production.
Final Thoughts
So, these are the variety of items that are cheaper to buy in the USA than in India explained above. These items include electronics, clothing, home appliances, and more. Make the most of your budget by taking advantage of the price differences between the USA and India.
However, it is important to note that prices may vary depending on the specific brand, model, and seller/retailer. Be sure to compare prices from different retailers before you make a purchase. Additionally, be sure to factor in the cost of shipping and taxes when budgeting for your shopping trip. So, have fun and save your money!
With a profound passion for international education, I am deeply committed to supporting students in their pursuit of studying abroad. It’s amazing to see their dreams come true. It’s rewarding to help them with visas, costs, and scholarships. Through continuous professional development and hands-on experience, I have acquired extensive knowledge in these areas over the last 5 years, offering personalized guidance that empowers students to make informed decisions about their educational journeys. I keep learning and using that knowledge to help students and families.
