‘12 LPA feels like 4 LPA, Rs 600 for 5 km cab ride’: Bengaluru product manager on why Rs 1 lakh salary may not be enough to live in the city

Many young professionals are moving to metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru seeking better career opportunities, personal growth and bigger paychecks. These urban hubs promise progress, wider networking and a lifestyle guaranteeing new experiences. But the reality can sometimes be way different. High rents, expensive hangouts, daily commutes and basic expenses can quickly burn a hole in your pocket. Recently, Shivank Goel, a product manager living in Bengaluru, shared a video on Instagram highlighting the high cost of everyday life in the city, warning those planning to move here.

Bengaluru product manager on high expenses

Shivank argued that Bengaluru can become financially demanding for employees earning below Rs 1 lakh a month. According to his experience, much of the city’s social life revolves around overspending, with cafes, events and subscription-based hobbies becoming regular affairs. Even routine housing costs can be steep, with security deposits of around Rs 2 lakh being treated as normal.

Daily travel can add another layer of financial strain, noted Shivank. He shared instances where a short 5-kilometre cab ride could cost around Rs 600, despite taking nearly an hour to reach the destination because of traffic. He also felt that Bengaluru’s highly commercialised lifestyle can make a Rs 12 lakh annual salary feel like Rs 1 lakh.

Final takeaway and social media reactions

Shivak further questioned citizens, suggesting free public spaces like Cubbon Park, as it does not offer a realistic solution. He pointed out that visiting them can require significant planning and time. Instead, he called for a broader conversation about the city’s rising costs rather than dismissing complaints from residents. On a concluding note, however, the product manager praised the pleasant weather in the city.

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A post shared by Shivank Goel (@thezeroquotient)

The post received multiple reactions from social media users. ‘This haunted me as someone who dreamed of living and working here,’ confessed a person. ‘Finally someone stated facts,’ agreed another. An individual shared that when they visited Bengaluru for 10 days, they happened to spend an entiremonth’s salary due to the expensive cost of living.