What’s the better choice, a company with a decent culture but below-market compensation, or a company that pays better but has a high-pressure environment and high turnover?

I chose stability and culture by working at this worldwide well known company. Two years later, I’m realizing that stability without growth can quietly turn into stagnation, especially financially. I am still classified a junior at this company with over 3 years of experience.

On the other side, I have companies very interested in hiring me, pay more, and accelerate skills, but where very few people stay long because of one problematic team lead. One colleague told me she was literally depressed working at that company for just one year.

So I’m curious: Is it better to protect your peace and risk slow progress, or accept pressure for a period to build leverage and move forward? Because now I am considering a side hustle while working at the first company.