₹50 LPA Shock: 7 Brutal Truths About Bengaluru’s IT Salaries You Can’t Ignore

A viral debate has erupted over whether ₹50 lakh per annum (LPA) is the new norm in Bengaluru’s IT sector, with some claiming it’s now a standard salary while others dismiss it as exaggerated. High-cost living and competitive hiring at top firms have driven up compensation, but experts clarify that such packages often include stocks and bonuses, with actual take-home pay being significantly lower. While elite professionals in senior or niche roles may earn ₹50 LPA+, the majority still fall in the ₹15–30 LPA range.

Bengaluru’s status as Asia-Pacific’s largest tech hub, with over a million professionals, fuels these salary discussions, yet disparities remain stark. Critics argue that social media amplifies outliers, creating unrealistic benchmarks. The real challenge lies in balancing rising wages with soaring expenses, making financial stability elusive for many. Ultimately, the debate reflects broader anxieties about affordability and career growth in India’s Silicon Valley. The truth? Exceptional pay exists, but it’s far from the average techie’s reality.

₹50 LPA Shock: 7 Brutal Truths About Bengaluru’s IT Salaries You Can’t Ignore

Bengaluru’s tech scene has long been synonymous with high salaries, but a recent viral discussion on X (formerly Twitter) has reignited the debate: Is ₹50 lakh per annum (LPA) the new benchmark for IT professionals in the city?  

The Viral Post That Sparked the Debate 

A user’s post questioning whether ₹50 LPA has become the new ₹25 LPA in Bengaluru’s IT sector drew polarizing reactions. While some claimed that ₹50 LPA is now “average” or even insufficient, others argued that such figures represent only top-tier talent—not the broader workforce.  

Key Takeaways from the Discussion:  

The Inflation Perception  

• Some users exaggerated, stating “50L is the new 10L” or that “earning less than ₹1 crore means it’s time to leave Bengaluru.”  

• Others countered that these claims ignore ground realities, where even ₹25–30 LPA remains a solid salary for many. 

The Reality of High CTCs  

• A tech worker clarified that a ₹50 LPA offer often includes stocks (RSUs) and bonuses, with the base salary being much lower (e.g., ₹16 LPA base + stocks vesting over years).  

• Take-home pay might only be ₹1.2–1.5 lakh/month after taxes and deductions, challenging the notion of “easy wealth.” 

City Comparisons  

• Unlike Hyderabad or Pune, where ₹25 LPA still holds weight, Bengaluru’s higher salaries come with a higher cost of living—skyrocketing rents, schooling, and lifestyle expenses. 

Bengaluru’s Rising Stakes in Global Tech 

The debate coincides with CBRE’s Global Tech Talent Guidebook 2025, which confirms Bengaluru as Asia-Pacific’s largest tech hub, with over 1 million professionals. The city now rivals San Francisco and London, attracting top talent—and top salaries.  

But Who Really Earns ₹50 LPA+?  

• Experience Matters: Most ₹50 LPA+ roles target senior engineers (8+ years), architects, or niche specialists (AI/ML, cybersecurity).  

• Company Tier: FAANG-like firms and well-funded startups offer such packages, but mid-tier companies often cap salaries lower.  

• Stock vs. Cash: Heavy reliance on RSUs means actual earnings depend on company performance—a risk many overlook. 

The Bottom Line 

While ₹50 LPA is increasingly common for elite tech roles in Bengaluru, it’s far from the median. For most professionals, salaries between ₹15–30 LPA remain the norm. The debate reflects broader anxieties about affordability, wage disparities, and the pressure to “keep up” in India’s Silicon Valley.  

What’s Your Take?  

• Is ₹50 LPA truly the new standard, or just social media noise?  

• How does your experience compare? Let us know in the comments!