Cost of Living in India – What You Need to Know

Thinking about moving to India or just curious how far your money can stretch? The truth is, costs vary a lot between a metro like Mumbai and a smaller town in Karnataka. But you don’t have to guess – I’m breaking down the major expenses, sharing real‑world numbers, and giving you simple ways to keep your budget in check.

Housing and Utilities

Rent is the biggest chunk of most budgets. In Tier‑1 cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru) a one‑bedroom apartment in the city centre can cost anywhere from ₹25,000 to ₹55,000 a month. Move a little farther out and you’ll see prices drop to ₹12,000‑₹20,000. Smaller cities like Jaipur or Kochi often have decent one‑bedrooms for under ₹10,000.

Utilities – electricity, water, gas, and internet – add another ₹2,000‑₹5,000 depending on usage and the season. Air‑conditioning in the summer spikes the electric bill, so factor that in if you live in a hot climate.

Food, Transport and Everyday Expenses

Eating at home is cheap. A kilogram of rice, a dozen eggs, and some vegetables will run you around ₹300‑₹500. Street food and local eateries serve meals for ₹50‑₹150, while a mid‑range restaurant dinner can cost ₹600‑₹1,200 per person.

Public transport is affordable – a monthly metro pass in Delhi is about ₹1,000, and bus passes in most cities are under ₹500. If you prefer a scooter, fuel costs roughly ₹100 per liter, and a decent two‑wheeler runs about ₹30,000‑₹50,000 upfront.

Other daily costs like mobile data (₹300 for 1 GB), gym memberships (₹1,200‑₹2,500), and leisure activities vary, but you can keep them low by opting for community centers or free parks.

To make the numbers work, start by listing your must‑haves (rent, food, transport) and then allocate a realistic amount for extras. Track your spending for a month using a simple spreadsheet or an app – you’ll be surprised how quickly small habits add up.

Remember, the cost of living isn’t just about money. Quality of life, security, and access to amenities matter too. A cheaper town may save you cash but might lack reliable internet or decent schools. Weigh those trade‑offs before you decide where to settle.

Bottom line: in India you can live comfortably on ₹30,000‑₹45,000 per month in most cities if you keep housing modest and cook at home. Bigger budgets open up nicer neighborhoods and more dining out, but the core costs stay predictable. Use this guide as a starting point, adjust for your personal style, and you’ll have a clear picture of what life really costs.