Stories
Bengaluru's High Cost of Living: ₹12 LPA Feels Like ₹4 LPA, Says Professional
- •A Bengaluru professional, Shivank Goel, highlights the city's high cost of living, stating a ₹12 LPA salary can feel like ₹4 LPA due to expenses.
- •Goel argues that entertainment and social activities in Bengaluru often come with a price, with limited low-cost options and a prevalent 'cafe culture'.
- •High rent security deposits and expensive cab rides, even for short distances, significantly contribute to daily costs, making a good salary feel smaller.
- •He dismisses the idea of relying on free public spaces like Cubbon Park, noting the time and effort required to access them.
- •Goel's comments sparked varied reactions, with some agreeing on the expense while others suggested affordable alternatives exist.
Key Questions Answered
Shivank Goel stated that a ₹12 lakh annual salary feels much lower in Bengaluru due to high housing rents, large security deposits, expensive transport, and a commercialized lifestyle where leisure activities like cafes and hobbies involve continuous spending.
He pointed out that paying a ₹2 lakh security deposit for a rental home is typical, short 5 km cab rides can cost around ₹600 amid heavy traffic, and even reaching free public spaces like Cubbon Park can take hours of planning and travel.
Social media users were divided; some agreed that the city is expensive due to demand and supply issues, while others argued that affordable food, free community workshops, and reasonable entertainment options are readily available for those who choose them.
