[contingencies]

Perhaps, though the only computer vision specialist I know personally works in Japan and is well paid, and the only rendering specialist I know (codes custom plugins and leads VFX teams on major global films like LOTR) is Australian, based in Australia, but frequently relocates on a project basis. You are right that continental Europe generally pays poorly, however this is not necessarily the case for highly specialist niche jobs and is offset by other benefits (eg. medical services are cheap or free, superior education for children is ~free, government social commitments to retirees/sick/young have real value, etc.). You can also live in mainland Europe and work remotely on a global gig... you don't get it if you don't ask!

[mc32]

I think parent commented is saying whatever aspect you're into you're likely to find renowned experts in the US, not that they are only in the US. It's a big country with a diversified industry, so by nature you'll find lots of opportunity. That does not mean you can't have experts elsewhere. You can find experts at something you only find in Russia or only India, but overall they are less diversified.

That said, work where you feel is best for you, given your capabilities.