If you’re in it for the cash, don’t. You’d make more as a mid-tier software engineer or a real estate agent in a decent city. But if you want to travel with a built-in community, have your rent paid for, and occasionally feel like you’re on a James Bond set (minus the explosions)—it’s a sweet gig.
One diplomat I interviewed put it best: “You don’t get rich. You get interesting.” And honestly? That’s a pretty good trade-off for a salary that, when you add up all the benefits, can feel like you’re making $150,000 while only filing taxes on $70,000.
So next time you see a diplomat in a crisp suit at a wedding, remember: they’re probably not balling out on caviar. They’re just good at making a modest salary go very, very far—thanks to a system that’s equal parts generous and ridiculous.
