There is absolutely no way to compare an income of US$100,000 a year in the USA to one of $100,000 pesos a year in DR. The USA income would be a middle income family budget. While the Dominican 100K in pesos would be a very low income family. However, if you are talking about $US 100,000 in both countries, now that is a big difference. You certainly would be in the category of almost millionaire status in Santo Domingo with that kind of income, while far outpacing in disposable income a person of equal value in the USA. And your income in the USA would be taxed at a 40% rate, while in DR it would be less, and perhaps not at all depending on how that income is earned here. For instance, if it is earned from Investment Certificates, you pay no taxes.