28 year old Ravi Verma had recently moved to Bengaluru this year and he was very excited about this. He had a promising job offer, endless food options and a vibrant social scene that had made the city feel like a dream that had came true.
Ravi shared “I didn’t expect to be broke every week”
Frustration have etched into his voice.” I’m earning very well but after paying all my rents, travel and groceries after that i am left with bare minimum”.
Ravi was drawn towards India’s Tech Capital Bengaluru
It’s home for global startups, massive infrastructure projects, and the kind of work and opportunities that are hard to pass . But in reality, he had found a hefty price tag.
Rent alone devoured a third of his salary—₹25,000 for a small
With a shared apartment in a decent neighborhood. Add in food, transport, and also some occasional social outings, Ravi was spending nearly 80% of his income just by getting these. “There were days I have questioned myself why am i working so hard. It felt like a trap,” he said.
Beyond money, the emotional toll began to build up
Long commutes, power cuts, and unpredictable weather all started wearing on him. “The traffic jams weren’t just annoying but they were soul-crushing,” Ravi joked, though the fatigue behind his eyes said otherwise.
What hit hardest was the lack of financial and breathing room
He wanted to save money, travel, maybe even help his parents back home. But Bengaluru’s cost of living have left little margin for him to live that kind of life.
Many newcomers to India’s metro cities often face the same
Choosing between opportunity and affordability. The city’s economic boom has pushed up the prices everywhere between housing, fuel, utilities, even street food isn’t exempt. And while the perks of the urban life are undeniable, for some, they simply aren’t worth the squeeze.
“I have moved back to Jaipur last week,” Ravi said, noticeably more relaxed. “It’s quieter, slower—but I have my savings again. I can plan, breathe and live.”
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