Cost of Living in India: A Detailed Breakdown

Last updated on June 10th, 2024 at 02:40 pm

India, one of the countries in South Asia, is widely known in Indonesia due to its Bollywood films and actors and actresses who have captivated the hearts of the Indonesian audience.

India is not only known as the birthplace of major religions like Hinduism and Buddhism but has also become a hub for innovation and economic development. If you are considering living or settling there, one important factor to consider is the cost of living in India.

In this article, we will explore the estimated cost of living in India, covering expenses such as food, transportation, housing, and other costs. Let's dive into the details below!

Breakdown of the Cost of Living in India

Your personal needs will influence your living costs in India, and whether it’s considered expensive or affordable depends on your requirements. 

Another crucial factor is the location where you live, as the cost of living in cities like Mumbai and Delhi is generally higher compared to Kolkata, which is considered more economical. Here’s a breakdown of estimated living expenses in India:

Food & Drink Costs in India

The cost of food in India can vary depending on the location and type of restaurant you visit. Eating at local restaurants or street food stalls usually costs around 200 - 500 INR, which is equivalent to 37,374 - 94,324 IDR. 

Meanwhile, dining at mid-range restaurants that offer a full meal for two people with three courses will cost between 600 - 2,500 INR, or 113,188 - 471,619 IDR. 

For fast food chains like McDonald’s or Burger King, a meal at McDonald's typically costs around 326 INR, equivalent to 61,499 IDR, while a cheese burger costs around 98 INR, or 18,475 IDR.

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Basic necessities like groceries are also important in managing living costs in India, and the total amount spent will depend on whether you shop at supermarkets or traditional markets.

Transportation costs

India offers various public transportation options, including trains, buses, taxis, and rickshaws. Public transport is generally affordable, especially for trains and buses. 

Daily tickets are priced between 15 - 50 INR, which equals 2,827 - 9,426 IDR, while monthly tickets range from 320 - 1,500 INR, or 60,318 - 282,742 IDR for regular fares.

Housing Costs

Accommodation is one of the most significant components of living costs in India, and prices can vary depending on the location and the facilities provided. Below are average monthly rent estimates in India:

Type of Accommodation	Price (INR)	Price (IDR)
1-bedroom apartment in city center	8,000 - 56,000 INR	1,510,673 - 10,575,965 IDR
1-bedroom apartment outside city center	5,000 - 51,000 INR	944,421 - 9,633,100 IDR
3-bedroom apartment in city center	17,000 - 116,000 INR	3,213,316 - 21,923,374 IDR
3-bedroom apartment outside city center	12,000 - 60,000 INR	2,267,935 - 11,335,770 ID

Utility Costs

Utilities, such as electricity, water, and internet, are generally affordable but can vary depending on your consumption and location. 

In larger cities, utility costs tend to be higher compared to smaller towns or rural areas.

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Type of Accommodation	Price (INR)	Price (IDR)
Utilities (electricity, heating, water, trash) for an apartment	1,500 - 6,000 INR	283,442 - 1,133,835 IDR
Minimum monthly phone plan (local, no discounts)	0.20 - 1.20 INR	37.81 - 226.81 IDR
Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, ADSL)	500 - 1,100 INR	94,505 - 207,913 IDR

Total Monthly Living Costs in India 

The average total cost of living in India per month is around 27,265 INR, which is approximately 5,139,883 IDR. This figure covers various expenses necessary for daily life, including food, housing, transportation, and other costs.

It’s important to note that the total monthly cost of living in India can vary depending on your lifestyle, personal preferences, and where you choose to live in the country.

Tips for Choosing Accommodation in India

Selecting the right place to stay in India requires careful consideration to match your needs. Here are some tips to help you with the process of choosing accommodation in India:

1. Choose a location that suits your needs: Consider factors such as proximity to your workplace, public transportation access, and nearby amenities like markets, hospitals, and schools.
2. Set a rent budget: Rent prices can vary depending on location, facilities, and apartment size. Be sure to also account for additional costs such as electricity, water, and maintenance.
3. Security: Choose accommodation in a safe neighborhood with good security systems, such as CCTV surveillance, door security, or the presence of security guards.

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The breakdown above provides a clear overview of what to expect if you’re planning to live or settle in India. By understanding these estimates, you can plan your budget more effectively for your stay in India. 

Before deciding to move to India, it is essential to consider the estimated cost of living. That’s why Easylink is here to help you send money from Indonesia to India safely, easily, and quickly. So, don’t worry if you find yourself short on funds while living there. You can easily ask friends, family, or relatives to send money to india through Easylink’s services.