Pune vs. Bengaluru: Corporate Professional Regrets Moving Despite 40% Salary Hike
Pune, 24th March 2025: A corporate professional’s decision to leave Pune for Bengaluru in search of a higher salary has backfired, highlighting a growing sentiment among working professionals. His experience, shared in a viral LinkedIn post, underscores the challenges of adjusting to Bengaluru’s high cost of living, despite a significant pay hike.
More Money, More Problems?
The individual, who was earning ₹18 LPA in Pune, accepted an offer of ₹25 LPA in Bengaluru, expecting a better financial position. However, within a year, he confided in a friend that he regretted the move.
“I thought I was making a smart financial decision, but ₹25 LPA feels like nothing in Bengaluru,” he admitted.
His friend, surprised by the statement, pointed out that a 40% increase should have improved his savings. But the reality turned out to be different.
“Rents are insanely high, landlords demand hefty deposits, traffic is a nightmare, and daily expenses are much higher than in Pune. It’s not the upgrade I expected,” he explained.
The Cost of Living Debate
Beyond just financial strain, the professional missed Pune’s affordability and quality of life. Simple pleasures, like enjoying a ₹15 vada pav, became a distant memory as he struggled with Bengaluru’s higher expenses.
His post ignited a debate online, with several professionals sharing similar experiences.
“I spent eight years in Pune, and I absolutely loved the balance—great weather, reasonable living costs, and a relaxed lifestyle. Moving to Bengaluru made me realize how expensive and stressful things can be. More money doesn’t always mean a better life,” commented one user.
However, some defended Bengaluru, arguing that financial management plays a key role.
“I earn much less than ₹25 LPA and still manage to save. It’s all about smart money management,” one user countered.
Others who had lived in multiple cities also weighed in. A former Mumbaikar remarked, “Mumbai is expensive, but apart from rent, everything is still cheaper than Bengaluru. The cost of living here is absurd!”
As professionals continue to weigh salary hikes against living costs, Pune remains a preferred choice for many who seek a balanced, affordable lifestyle.
