I used to have a lot of free time (working in academia), and I switched to a software engineer role in the private sector. I miss the free time, but I'm also learning new things and I feel I have more space to grow and more opportunities overall.

As for the salary, I earn twice as much. Practically, my lifestyle hasn't changed but I save all my extra income. I could work part-time and still earn more than before but I'm concerned about the future (retirement, medical expenses... all these things which are covered by the state now, but who knows where we'll be in 25 years). I'd rather earn money now when I have the chance. I'm not sure it will last.

That being said, I still have good work life balance (living in a "socialist" country).