Lateral as PE Associate for Pay?

Does it make much sense to lateral from one private equity firm to another for (mostly) pay at the junior level? Assuming all else is equal e.g. workplace culture and learning opportunity.

I'm currently a second year associate at a MM PE firm making ~$250k in NY/SF and am fairly confident that I would be a strong candidate (have a good resume, get plenty of quality HH inbounds, and generally interview well) for a similar role making slightly more ~$300-350k. It is somewhat of a money vs. experience argument.

Importantly, I am not unhappy. I am already in a comfortable spot, learning lots, and have a path toward promotion/carry. I also have a good, sustainable work/life balance. If I moved, I would have to rebuild the significant social capital that I have developed. However, compound interest is an incredible thing, and I want to know if I should be prioritizing earnings earlier on in my career (having the freedom to pursue my own projects sooner than later would be the goal).

I am aware that the pay difference early on might not be that significant in the grand scheme of things. But would a move like this make any sense at all or am I just being restless and impatient?

Thank you all!

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