Many young professionals are now leaving the hustle and bustle of metro cities and settling in Goa. They are adopting a relaxed ‘Sushegad’ lifestyle with the help of remote work. Due to this trend, concerns of inflation and unplanned development are also increasing.
For many youth of India, Goa is no longer just a holiday destination, but has become a full-time lifestyle option. Many people like software engineers, startup founders, artists, remote workers and creators are now leaving the crowded metro cities and coming here in search of Goa’s famous ‘Sushegad’ lifestyle. ‘Sushegaad’ means peace, tranquility and slow pace of life.
The term ‘Sushegad’ associated with the identity of Goa broadly means a comfortable, contented and unhurried lifestyle. But people living here say that people often misinterpret it. “Sushegaad does not mean doing nothing. It means living life at a comfortable pace, without constant stress or hurry,” a Goan artist told O Heraldo.
This thinking is increasingly attracting young professionals who are tired of the traffic, burnout, rising rents and never-ending hustle and bustle of cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai and Delhi. Better internet connectivity and remote work opportunities have made it easier for professionals to pursue their careers online while living on the edge.
On Reddit, users relocating to Goa described the change as a “lifestyle reset.” One remote worker wrote, “Here you don’t feel the constant rush like in metro cities.” Another user wrote that he wanted to have a “chill, retirement-like life” filled with reading, going to cafes, swimming and quiet evenings.
Assagao, Siolim, Aldona and some areas of South Goa are now attracting people who want to stay here for a long time. These people are looking for greenery, creative communities and a slower routine instead of nightlife tourism. Beautiful small cafes, co-working spaces and wellness centers have also increased Goa’s appeal among young urban Indians.
However, Goa’s growing popularity has also given rise to concerns such as rising inflation, unplanned development and cultural change. Recently a discussion on the cost of living in Goa went viral when a software engineer revealed that she spends around Rs 82,000 every month when she lives alone in the state.
Locals have also expressed concern over maintaining Goa’s identity amid increasing migration and real estate expansion. Some local residents have appealed online to newcomers to respect the local culture, learn Konkani and not mistake Goa for just being a “party state”.
Despite these challenges, the emotional pull of Goa is still very strong. In a world where burnout and the pressure of constant work are on the rise, the slower rhythm of this state is becoming a dream for a generation looking for peace, flexibility and a better work-life balance.