Maitri Mangal, a software engineer at Google, recently shared her monthly living expenses in New York City through a viral Instagram reel. The post, which was reshared by podcaster and content creator Kushal Lodha, highlights the substantial costs associated with residing in one of the world’s most expensive cities. According to Mangal’s breakdown, her monthly expenses total approximately Rs 4.28 lakh (around $5,000). This figure includes a significant rent cost of $3,000, which aligns with typical rental prices in the city ranging from $2,000 to $3,000 for decent accommodation.

Daily expenses such as groceries, dining out, and miscellaneous costs add another $1,000 to $2,000 to her monthly budget. Despite the high living costs, commuting remains relatively affordable at $100-$200 per month. Overall, the average cost of living in New York City can vary from $4,500 to $6,000 monthly, depending on individual lifestyle choices and accommodation preferences. Key contributors to these expenses include housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare.

The Instagram post caption reads: “What’s the average package at Google? I asked Maitri, a Software Engineer at Google, and she shared that it’s around Rs 1.6 Crores in general across roles! Then I asked her, How much does it cost to live in New York? From rent to groceries, she breaks down her monthly expenses, and it’s eye-opening.”

The video has sparked diverse reactions online. While some users commend Mangal for her transparency regarding her expenses, others criticize the post for lacking detailed insights. One user commented on the ambiguity of the “average package at Google” without specifying job level or experience years. Another user questioned the tax implications of such an income.

New York City’s reputation as a costly metropolis is well-known due to its expensive housing market and high living costs. Despite this, its vibrant lifestyle and abundant career opportunities continue to attract many individuals worldwide.