Laid off last year, a senior software engineer sparked a debate on social media after questioning whether a $150,000 (approximately ₹1.32 crore) salary would be enough to sustain a livelihood in New York
City. After eight months of setbacks in his job search, the 30-year-old shared on the professional networking platform Blind that he had finally received an offer, but from a non-tech company, with a significant pay cut and a requirement to relocate from Dallas to New York.
Software Engineer’s Post Asking Whether 1.32 Crore Salary Is Enough
The software engineer posting anonymously revealed he was previously earning a total compensation of $320,000 (around ₹2.82 crore) at a remote tech job, from which he was laid off in 2024. The techie said he had found “no success” for eight months after that, during which he kept giving unsuccessful interviews despite having a collective experience of eight years in the industry.
“I just got an offer from a non tech company after extremely rigorous interview process of 7 rounds and the offer is only 150K, 3 days in office in NYC. Recruiter said it is the highest offer and they have multiple qualified finalists so no negotiation possible. Have until Tuesday to accept or reject it,” the post read.
The techie confirmed that his latest job offer doesn’t provide him with relocation support and demands that he pays for the move from Dallas to New York entirely. “I have savings that can last me another 3-4 months, but I am very, very, very tired of interviewing. Question to those who went through a similar situation, is it manageable in NYC with 150K TC for a single male 30 yo?” he asked.
Techie’s Post Sparks Online Debate
The software engineer’s post sparked an online debate, drawing mixed reactions from social media users. Some highlighted New York’s high rent, taxes, and commuting costs, arguing that his ₹1.32 crore salary wouldn’t leave much for savings. Others suggested he accept the offer for stability while continuing to search for a better opportunity on the side.
“Since you’re coming from Dallas and it’s already literally a 60% pay cut, it’ll probably end up feeling like an 80% pay cut. You’ll be making as much or less than kids 2-3 years out of college in banking or consulting in NYC. But it’s something to do so,” one user wrote.
Another commented, “It’s definitely livable, even in Manhattan. However, it depends on what your standards are and how far away from work/the city you’re willing to be for nicer living standards.”
“You’d be insane to reject the offer. This does not have to be permanent, though. Use it simply as income while you continue to interview. Get a temporary place in NYC if you don’t want to commit there long term,” someone else suggested.
The techie’s dilemma is likely to resonate with many freshly employed individuals who, after months of unemployment and unstable pay, are now navigating the perks and pressures of their new workplaces, while grappling with a mental and emotional balancing act.
