In Bengaluru, often referred to as India's Silicon Valley, the cost of living has led to discussions about what constitutes a comfortable salary. A tech professional recently shared on social media that earning ₹30 lakh per annum (approximately $36,000 USD) is becoming synonymous with being 'poor' in the city. He attributes this perception to the tendency of many to overspend on luxuries, such as expensive gadgets and lavish living arrangements, rather than focusing on essential needs. The individual pointed out that some of his friends, who earn a modest ₹70,000 to ₹80,000 per month, manage to live comfortably without falling into debt traps. They prioritize their spending, opting for a more sustainable lifestyle. For instance, one user mentioned living in a decent apartment with a rent of ₹25,000 per month and maintaining a monthly expenditure of ₹75,000 to ₹80,000, which includes children's education. This perspective highlights the importance of financial literacy and prudent spending in achieving a quality life in an expensive city like Bengaluru.