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'Is ₹40 LPA enough anymore?': Man raises question about Bengaluru's rising cost of living

A debate on Bengaluru's cost of living gained attention after an X user asked whether 40 LPA still guarantees a comfortable lifestyle.

Updated on: Jun 22, 2026, 15:14:53 IST
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As living costs continue to rise in India's major cities, a question about Bengaluru's affordability has caught the attention of social media users. An X user recently wondered whether a salary package of 40 lakh per annum is still enough to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in the city or whether rising expenses have changed the equation.

A debate on Bengaluru's rising cost of living gained attention on social media. (Unsplash)
A debate on Bengaluru's rising cost of living gained attention on social media. (Unsplash)

The post quickly attracted responses from people across income groups, with many sharing their own experiences of living and working in Bengaluru.

The post was shared on X with the caption: "Is a salary package of 40 LPA good enough to live comfortably in Bangalore? Or has the city become so expensive that even 40 LPA feels average now? If not, what do you think is the ideal annual package for a comfortable lifestyle in Bangalore today? 20 LPA? 40 LPA? 60 LPA? 1 crore+? Curious to hear real experiences from people living there."

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The question struck a chord with many users, particularly as discussions around housing costs, traffic, schooling, and lifestyle expenses continue to dominate conversations about life in Bengaluru.

Take a look:

Internet shares mixed views

The responses highlighted how the answer depends largely on an individual's lifestyle, family size, and financial responsibilities.

One user wrote, "It depends. If you have two children and no inheritance, 40 LPA is merely enough to get by."

Another shared a very different perspective, saying, "I was earning 65,000 a month three years ago. It was enough for me, and I managed to save a good amount as well."

Some users approached the discussion with humour. One person joked, "No, it's not enough. You need a Swiggy or Zomato side hustle as well."

Others pointed out that affordability varies significantly from person to person. "Adjust your lifestyle and any place can be affordable. I earn only 9 LPA in Kolkata despite having more than 15 years of experience," one user commented.

Another wrote, "For some, 6 LPA is enough, while for others even 1 crore a year would not be sufficient."

Several users also highlighted factors such as rent, commuting costs, and location within the city. One comment read, " 40 LPA is good if you live in rented accommodation, have a company cab for commuting, and stay on the outskirts rather than in central Bengaluru."

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The conversation also featured Bengaluru's infamous traffic. A user quipped, "Very difficult. You might have to do overtime at Silk Board just to get through the traffic."

Meanwhile, others offered a reality check. "People earning 20,000 a month are also living happily here," one person wrote.

  • Vaishali Kapila
    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Vaishali Kapila

    Vaishali Kapila is a Senior Content Producer at Hindustan Times Digital, where she covers internet culture, viral social media moments, human interest stories and workplace trends. She believes the best stories often come from ordinary experiences and everyday conversations. Through her stories, she aims to help readers understand not just what is trending, but why it matters. Born and brought up in Chandigarh and now based in Delhi, Vaishali has over five years of experience in digital journalism. Before joining Hindustan Times, she worked as a Sub Editor at NDTV, where she specialised in food and travel writing. Over the years, she has written and edited stories on recipes, nutrition, restaurants, destinations and travel trends, while building expertise in digital storytelling, search-driven journalism and audience-focused content. Today, her work spans a wide range of topics, including consumer issues, lifestyle, workplace trends and stories that reflect everyday life. She enjoys finding fresh angles, speaking with people and adding the context that helps readers make sense of a story. Vaishali holds a Bachelor's degree in Sociology from Lady Shri Ram College for Women, University of Delhi, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism with a specialisation in New Media from the Asian College of Journalism, Chennai. When she is not working, Vaishali enjoys exploring new places, trying local food and documenting her experiences through a food Instagram page she runs with her husband. She also enjoys watching documentaries, learning about space and science, and exploring stories about different cultures and people.Read More

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