A Bengaluru-based chartered accountant has sparked widespread discussion online after revealing that her monthly expenses total ₹82,000, offering a transparent snapshot of urban living costs in the city.
Meenal Goel shared her detailed expense breakdown on LinkedIn, explaining that she currently resides in Bengaluru and splits certain costs with a roommate.
A breakdown of city living costs
According to her post, ₹37,000 goes towards rent for a 2BHK flat. Food and groceries account for ₹15,000, while transportation expenses come to ₹5,000 per month. Utilities such as electricity and internet total ₹4,000, and domestic help costs another ₹4,000.
Beyond essentials, she spends ₹17,000 on lifestyle choices including dining out, entertainment and gym membership fees.
Her candid disclosure has given many professionals a relatable benchmark of what it costs to maintain a certain standard of living in the city.
Social media divided
The post quickly gained traction, with users debating whether ₹82,000 reflects necessity or lifestyle preference.
One commenter pointed out that many individuals earning ₹25,000 per month also manage to live, save and support families. Another observed that budgeting is deeply personal, noting that what feels “normal” to one may seem extravagant to another.
Rising cost of living in focus
Bengaluru has long been recognised as one of India’s fastest-growing urban centres, with rising rental and lifestyle expenses. Conversations around cost of living often resurface as professionals compare salaries, savings and quality of life.
While some view the ₹82,000 figure as realistic for a comfortable urban lifestyle, others argue it highlights the widening gap between income groups in the city.
The discussion has once again brought attention to financial planning, lifestyle choices and the evolving economic landscape of Bengaluru.