Laid Off Tech Professional Struggles to Decide if ₹1.32 Crore Salary is Enough to Survive in New York City

Eight Months of Unsuccessful Interviews

A 30-year-old senior software engineer, laid off last year, has shared the difficulties of navigating today’s job market. Despite eight years of industry experience, they revealed that after eight months of nonstop interviews, not a single role materialized—until now.

The engineer finally received an offer, but it is far from what they once earned. Previously, they made a total annual compensation of $320,000 (about ₹2.82 crore) in a remote tech role. The new opportunity offers $150,000 (around ₹1.32 crore), nearly half of their past salary, and requires relocating from Dallas to New York City.

A Hard Choice Between Stability and Sacrifice

According to the engineer, the position comes with strings attached. The role is based in a non-tech company, requires three days a week in the office, and provides no relocation support. That means moving expenses and the high cost of living in New York would fall entirely on their shoulders.

“I have savings that can last another three to four months,” they wrote, admitting they feel drained from the constant cycle of interviews. With no room for negotiation—the recruiter reportedly insisted the offer was final—the engineer must decide whether to accept or decline by Tuesday.

Concerns About Cost of Living in NYC

The engineer openly asked whether $150,000 is enough to manage in New York City as a single 30-year-old male. The concern is clear: while the salary sounds significant, New York’s housing market, taxes, and daily expenses can quickly erode take-home pay.

Mixed Opinions From the Online Community

The post sparked widespread discussion. Responses highlighted how polarizing the situation is:

• High costs in NYC – Some argued that the cut from $320,000 to $150,000 would feel overwhelming. “Moving from Dallas, this will feel like an 80% pay cut,” one person noted.

• Livable but with limits – Others pointed out that it’s possible to survive in New York City on $150,000, though it would require compromises. “It’s livable, even in Manhattan. It depends on your standards and how far from the city you’re willing to stay,” one user explained.

• Practical advice – Several commenters encouraged the engineer to take the job for now, stressing that stability is better than uncertainty. “You’d be insane to reject the offer. This doesn’t have to be permanent—treat it as income while you continue interviewing,” another suggested.

An Uncertain Road Ahead

For the engineer, the dilemma reflects a wider challenge many professionals face in the shifting job market: deciding between financial stability at a lower salary or holding out for something closer to past earnings. With a looming deadline and limited savings, the decision could shape not just their career path but also their day-to-day life in one of the most expensive cities in the world.