Low Cost of Living in India: The Best Cities to Live in
India is a highly populated and diverse country with an incredibly wide range of cost of living. From bustling metropolitan cities such as New Delhi and Mumbai to smaller cities and towns, India offers a variety of options for those looking to live on a budget.
Whether you’re relocating for work, study or just on vacation, it’s important to consider the cost of living in India before making any big decisions. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best cities in India to live in on a budget, as well as some tips for reducing your cost of living.
What is the Cost of Living in India?
The cost of living in India can vary greatly from city to city, and even within the same city. Generally, the cost of living in India is lower than in many other countries. The cost of groceries, rent, and transportation are all typically lower than in the United States and other developed countries.
That said, the cost of living in India can still be quite high, depending on where you live. In larger cities such as New Delhi and Mumbai, the cost of living is much higher than in smaller cities and towns. Additionally, the cost of living can vary based on the type of accommodation you choose, as well as the type of lifestyle you lead.
The Cheapest Cities to Live in India
For those looking to reduce their cost of living, there are several cities in India that offer a lower cost of living than other cities. Here are some of the best cities in India for low cost of living:
- Jaipur: Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. The cost of living in Jaipur is much lower than in larger cities, making it an ideal place to live on a budget.
- Chennai: Chennai is the capital of Tamil Nadu and is a bustling metropolitan city. Despite its size, the cost of living in Chennai is relatively low, making it a great place to live on a budget.
- Chandigarh: Chandigarh is the capital of Punjab and is often called the “City Beautiful.” The cost of living in Chandigarh is significantly lower than in many other cities in India.
- Hyderabad: Hyderabad is the capital of Telangana and is known for its rich culture and heritage. The cost of living in Hyderabad is relatively low compared to other Indian cities, making it an ideal place to live on a budget.
- Kochi: Kochi is the largest city in Kerala and is known for its beautiful beaches and lush green landscapes. The cost of living in Kochi is significantly lower than in many other cities in India, making it an ideal place to live on a budget.
Tips for Reducing the Cost of Living in India
If you’re looking to reduce your cost of living in India, there are a few tips you can follow. Here are some of the best ways to reduce your cost of living in India:
- Opt for shared accommodation – Shared accommodation is often much cheaper than renting a private apartment or house. You can save money by sharing your accommodation with roommates or family members.
- Take public transportation – Public transportation is often much cheaper than taking a taxi or renting a car. Taking the bus or metro can help you save money on your daily commute.
- Cook your own meals – Eating out can quickly add up and can be quite expensive. Cooking your own meals is often much cheaper than dining out, and it can also be healthier.
- Shop at local markets – Shopping at local markets is often much cheaper than at supermarkets or big-box stores. Local markets often have fresh produce and other items at lower prices.
- Avoid luxury items – Luxury items such as designer clothes and electronics can be quite expensive. Consider avoiding these items and choosing more affordable alternatives.
How to Find Affordable Accommodation in India
Finding affordable accommodation in India can be a challenge, especially in larger cities. Here are some tips for finding affordable accommodation in India:
- Look for shared accommodation – As mentioned above, shared accommodation is often much cheaper than renting a private apartment or house. Look for roommates or family members to share your accommodation with.
- Look for deals online – Online websites such as Airbnb and Booking.com often have deals on accommodation. Make sure to search for deals before booking your accommodation.
- Look for short-term rentals – Short-term rentals such as hostels or homestays can often be cheaper than long-term rentals. Consider looking for short-term rentals if you’re just visiting for a short period of time.
- Negotiate with landlords – Landlords often offer discounts for long-term rentals. Make sure to negotiate with your landlord to get the best possible deal.
- Look for government housing – Government housing can often be more affordable than private housing. Consider looking for government housing if you’re on a tight budget.
The Best Cities to Live on a Budget in India
There are many cities in India that offer a lower cost of living than other cities. Here are some of the best cities to live on a budget in India:
- Udaipur: Udaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and is known for its beautiful lakes and palaces. The cost of living in Udaipur is much lower than in larger cities, making it an ideal place to live on a budget.
- Mysore: Mysore is the second-largest city in Karnataka and is known for its rich cultural heritage. The cost of living in Mysore is relatively low compared to other cities in India, making it an ideal place to live on a budget.
- Ahmedabad: Ahmedabad is the largest city in Gujarat and is known for its vibrant culture and cuisine. The cost of living in Ahmedabad is significantly lower than in many other cities in India, making it an ideal place to live on a budget.
- Kolkata: Kolkata is the capital of West Bengal and is known for its rich history and culture. The cost of living in Kolkata is relatively low compared to other cities in India, making it an ideal place to live on a budget.
- Lucknow: Lucknow is the capital of Uttar Pradesh and is known for its traditional architecture and cuisine. The cost of living in Lucknow is significantly lower than in many other cities in India, making it an ideal place to live on a budget.
Cost of Living in India: The Bottom Line
The cost of living in India can vary greatly from city to city, and even within the same city. Generally, the cost of living in India is lower than in many other countries, making it an ideal place to live on a budget.
There are many cities in India that offer a lower cost of living than other cities. Jaipur, Chennai, Chandigarh, Hyderabad, and Kochi are some of the best cities in India for low cost of living. Additionally, there are several tips for reducing your cost of living in India, such as opting for shared accommodation, taking public transportation, and avoiding luxury items.
For those looking to live on a budget, India is a great place to consider. With its diverse range of cities and towns, India offers a variety of options for those looking to reduce their cost of living.
FAQs About Low Cost of Living in India
- What is the cheapest city to live in India? Jaipur is the cheapest city to live in India, followed by Chennai, Chandigarh, Hyderabad, and Kochi.
- What is the cost of living in India? The cost of living in India can vary greatly from city to city, and even within the same city. Generally, the cost of living in India is lower than in many other countries.
- What are some tips for reducing the cost of living in India? Some tips for reducing the cost of living in India include opting for shared accommodation, taking public transportation, cooking your own meals, shopping at local markets, and avoiding luxury items.
- What are the best cities to live on a budget in India? Some of the best cities to live on a budget in India are Udaipur, Mysore, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, and Lucknow.
Conclusion
The cost of living in India can vary greatly from city to city, and even within the same city. Generally, the cost of living in India is lower than in many other countries, making it an ideal place to live on a budget.
There are many cities in India that offer a lower cost of living than other cities. Jaipur, Chennai, Chandigarh, Hyderabad, and Kochi are some of the best cities in India for low cost of living. Additionally, there are several tips for reducing your cost of living in India, such as opting for shared accommodation, taking public transportation, and avoiding luxury items.
For those looking to live on a budget, India is a great place to consider. With its diverse range of cities and towns, India offers a variety of options for those looking to reduce their cost of living.