Earlier quoted context omitted.
What a ridiculous statement. Taxes are what, a third of that? Leaves 100k. This means that rent would have to be $5k/mo before you get to the same starting point of $40k. And now you have $40k of money post-tax and post-rent; nurettin is talking about $40k before tax and accommodation. US$40k in Turkish lira loses a third to income tax as well, and I have no idea what accommodation is like there. $5k/mo rent exists i…
No one is moaning. I'm pointing out that envying someone making more than you is a pointless exercise.
So yes, "probably take home less than you" is definitely moaning and has no substance. It's playing to the "omg, I'm so poor" crap that's prevalent in some parts of our industry.
Living expenses are higher in first-world countries and that does need to be taken into account, but claiming to have less money than someone on a quarter of your wage "because tax and rent" is nonsensical self-pity.