When I shifted from Gurgaon to Bangalore last year for a job upgrade, little did I realize that my salary hike would not be sufficient to host everything. It seemed perfect on paper — a better role in a growing city, for better pay.
But when I really moved, I discovered something essential: Job relocation isn’t just about salary — it’s about cash flow.
During those early weeks, bills seemed to fly at us from every corner. Rent deposit, temporary accommodation, daily commuting costs, food, setup costs — all before I’d even been paid my first salary. That experience taught me how much money one should actually have in the bank before changing job location in India and why savings are more important than people make it out to be.
This is not theory, this article is based on actual relocation experience.
Why You Need Extra Money Before Changing Job Location
When you change job location, multiple expenses hit you at the same time.
In my case:
Salary came after a full cycle
Bangalore rents were higher than expected
Daily expenses increased immediately
Setup costs were unavoidable
Even with a salary hike, the first 30–45 days are financially unstable. That’s why having money saved before relocating is not optional — it’s necessary.
Minimum Savings Required Before Changing Job Location
Based on my Gurgaon to Bangalore move, here’s a realistic savings estimate:
For Metro Cities (Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi NCR)
Minimum: ₹1.5 – ₹2 lakhs
Comfortable: ₹2.5 – ₹3 lakhs
For Tier-2 Cities
Minimum: ₹80,000 – ₹1.2 lakhs
This amount helps you manage deposits, rent advance, daily expenses, and emergencies without stress.
Expense Categories You Should Plan Before Relocation
These are the main expense areas I faced after relocating:
Rent and Deposit
Most houses require:
5–6 months deposit
First month rent in advance
This alone consumes a hefty part of your savings.
Temporary Stay and Food
Until you find a house or your household items are in transit:
PGs or hotels cost you daily.
Eating outside becomes routine.
Grocery setup takes time.
These small costs add up very fast.
Travel and Daily Commute
In new city:
You first try different routes.
Use cabs initially everywhere.
Spend extra on metro cards or fuel.
Daily Commute expenses are always high in the first month after shifting.
House Setup and Small Purchases
After shifting to new city, you end up buying:
Basic furniture.
Kitchen items.
New Internet connection
Cleaning materials.
These are unavoidable and often neglected.
Emergency Fund Is Critical During Job Relocation
One error that I fortuitously did not make was failing to totally depend on my salary.
I saved 2-3 months of expenses as an emergency fund, which was useful when:
- Salary was delayed
- Unexpected costs appeared
- Rent negotiations took time
Without this sort of emergency fund, the moving process can be very traumatic.
Should You Use Credit Cards or Loans for Relocation?
From what I’ve seen, it’s this simple:
- Credit cards are easy but more pressure.
- Loans introduce EMI stress during an uncertain period
- Having savings or emergency fund gives peace of mind and flexibility.”
Try not to be in debt after your first month into the move. Let your expenses stabilize first.
Relocation Savings Checklist (From Experience)
Before changing job location, make sure you have:
2–3 months living expenses saved
Separate emergency fund
Clear idea of rent & deposit
Buffer for salary delay
Budget for first month overspending
This checklist saved me from panic during my Gurgaon to Bangalore move.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much money is enough before changing job location?
For metro cities, ₹2–3 lakhs is a safe amount. It covers deposits, expenses, and emergencies comfortably.
Is salary hike enough to manage relocation expenses?
No. Salary helps long-term, but savings are required to manage initial expenses.
Can I relocate without savings?
It is risky. Without savings, you may depend on credit cards or loans, increasing financial stress.
How long does it take to recover relocation expenses?
Usually 3–6 months, once rent, commute, and daily expenses stabilise.
Does job relocation affect financial stability?
Usually 3–6 months, once rent, commute, and daily expenses stabilise.
Read More – Financial Checklist Before Changing Job Location in India (2025), Things I Wish I Knew Before Relocating from Gurgaon to Bangalore for a Job
Author
Written from personal experience by a professional who relocated from Gurgaon to Bangalore for a job upgrade, focusing on practical money planning and real-life challenges.
Disclaimer
This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide financial or legal advice.
Last updated: December 2025
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