I don't think it's a cultural thing, mroe personal taste. Here in my house (in the UK) we all have dual monitor setups at least (mines a quad).

As for priorities in looking for a job, heres mine:

1) Is the product something I'm passionate about?

2) Do I have fun with the people i the company?

3) Do they let me set my own work hours? (I work better at 4am when the world is silent)