Hi everyone,
Looking for some neutral perspectives on this situation.

Background

YOE: 4.5+ years

Current compensation: ~15L base + ~2.5L variable (no RSUs)
Current role is WFH

Offer details

Company: Microsoft
Title: SDE II / L61

Location: Bangalore / Hyderabad

Compensation:

Base: ~25L
Stock: ~$48k USD vested over 4 years
Benefits: standard Microsoft benefits

I attempted to negotiate the base to ~29–32L, mainly because this would require relocation from a low-cost location to a metro (Bangalore/Hyderabad). HR mentioned they cannot bump the level to L62 due to YOE constraints and given my current base, they can't go further.

While this looks like a significant hike on paper, factoring in:

1. relocation costs
2. higher living expenses
3. higher tax slab
4. lateral move (SDE2 → SDE2)

I’m unsure whether this makes sense financially and career-wise at this stage.

Question:

Would you take this Microsoft L61 offer at 4.5 YOE, considering relocation and long-term growth, or wait for a better-aligned opportunity?

Thanks in advance!