Rs 80,000 monthly income but he lives a broke life: Man asks how to escape the salary vs expenses trap in India

With the cost of living steadily rising across Indian cities and everyday expenses quietly getting heavier on the pocket, many working professionals are starting to question whether their salaries are really enough anymore. What once seemed like a comfortable monthly income is now often stretched thin between rent, bills and lifestyle costs.

A recent post on Reddit has struck a nerve with many young earners in India. The user, who says he earns around ₹80,000 a month, admitted that despite what sounds like a decent income on paper, he feels like he is barely getting by. After covering rent, groceries, bills, EMIs and other routine expenses, he says there is hardly anything left to save. The feeling, as he described it, is more about “just surviving” than actually moving ahead financially.

The post quickly picked up traction, with people sharing their own experiences and opinions. While some said this situation is becoming common, others pointed towards possible money management gaps.

‘Depends on where you live and what you spend’

A large number of replies focused on one key factor, location. One user pointed out that a lot depends on rent, especially in tier 1 and tier 2 cities where housing costs take away a big chunk of income. Another added that ₹80,000 is a good salary, but how far it goes depends on the city and the nature of expenses.

One comment advised the original poster to look closely at EMIs and spending habits, suggesting that cutting down impulsive expenses for a few months could make a noticeable difference. The user wrote that it all boils down to where you live and what your financial commitments look like.

‘It’s not just income, it’s lifestyle and fixed costs’

Several users highlighted that the issue may not always be low income, but how money flows out every month. One comment noted that fixed costs quietly eat into earnings, leaving little room for savings. Another user said the feeling of being broke often comes from multiple small expenses adding up rather than one large cost.

There were also blunt takes. One commenter said unless someone is supporting a large family in an expensive city, spending most of ₹80,000 without saving could point to poor money management. However, others pushed back, saying lifestyle expectations today are different and not everyone wants to live with extreme frugality.

‘Inflation and city life are real factors’

Inflation was another recurring theme in the discussion. A user summed it up in one word 'inflation' while others explained that expenses in urban India have been steadily rising. One comment claimed that in tier 1 cities, even a modest lifestyle can cost more than expected, making ₹80,000 feel insufficient.

Another user said that what the original poster is experiencing is “totally normal,” especially in cities where everyday costs have gone up significantly. According to them, it is not just about income, but how fixed expenses like rent, utilities and transport steadily consume most of it.


Interestingly, the thread also revealed how relative income can feel. One user earning ₹25,000 said they felt envious, while another earning much more admitted they still feel broke because most of their income goes into investments.

At the same time, a few comments tried to offer practical advice. Tracking expenses, building intentional saving habits, and focusing on upskilling to increase income were some of the suggestions shared.