What is the Cost of Living in Mumbai in 2024?
Mumbai is a city that never sleeps. The city's irresistible charm attracts thousands of individuals to make their dreams come true. The “City of Seven Islands” is an important hub for commerce, trade and business. Furthermore, it is India's financial capital.
Due to these factors, the cost of living in Mumbai is comparatively higher than that in the other metropolitan cities in India. Thus, knowing the average living costs and key expenses is crucial if you plan to relocate to this city.
Here is a detailed guide on the cost of living in Mumbai in 2024 for bachelors, students, couples, and families.
What is the Average Cost of Living in Mumbai?
Mumbai has the highest living costs among all the major metropolitan cities in India. However, the average living expenses in this city will tend to differ based on factors like accommodation, lifestyle choices, and personal expenses.
Find the average cost of living in Mumbai in the table below:
Cost of Living in Mumbai for Bachelors
The living expenses in Mumbai for a bachelor are based on components like rent, transportation, groceries, utilities, entertainment, and more. Moreover, it tends to differ across individuals based on location and personal spending habits.
Check out the cost of living in Mumbai for a single person in the table below:
Cost of Living in Mumbai for Students
The living costs for students in Mumbai depend upon the accommodation, location, transportation costs, utilities, and food expenses. Also, the individual’s personal spending habits and lifestyle choices come into play in this regard.
Listed below are the key expenses for students in Mumbai:
Cost of Living in Mumbai for a Family
Regarding families, the cost of living in Mumbai depends upon factors like the number of members, type of accommodation, child’s education costs, groceries, utilities, and more.
Check out the key expenses for families living in Mumbai:
Cost of Living in Mumbai for Couples
For couples, the cost of living in Mumbai includes accommodation, groceries, food expenses, utilities, transportation, etc.
Find all the details listed below:
Factors That Determine the Cost of Living in Mumbai
1. Accommodation
The major chunk of the monthly budget gets spent on paying the rent of living space. The cost of land is high, and so is the price for rent. However, the rent varies from area to area. The table below shows the approximate price to buy or rent a property in Mumbai.
Furthermore, the table below shows the approximate cost of rent per month in the most affordable and posh areas in Mumbai –
Price for Rent in Affordable Areas:
Price for Rent in Posh Areas:
Affordable Paying Guest
2. Transport
Mumbai offers its residents a wide range of transport facilities. It is a fact that Mumbai has the largest network of local trains and buses which help the people avoid traffic and cut down the travelling costs, respectively.
3. Groceries
All the things of daily need like rice, bread, milk, fruits, poultry products, etc., are easily available in nearby 'Kirana stores' and supermarkets. Furthermore, several online grocery delivery apps provide groceries to your doorstep.
4. Utilities
The money spent on utilities such as electricity, internet, gas, TV, DTH, cable, etc., adds up a significant amount to your monthly budget. However, this amount depends on the areas where you live and the usage.
5. Entertainment
Every individual needs some time to relax and unwind after a long day of studies or work. Mumbai offers numerous choices in this regard. Starting from taking a walk around the Marina drive to bar hopping to a number of pubs and bars, Mumbai has it all.
6. Childcare
For families living in Mumbai, there are a number of well-known first-class schools for the schooling of kids. The money spent on the tuition fees of the schools plays an important role in deciding the cost of living in Mumbai for a family.
Tips on Reducing the Cost of Living in Mumbai
Following are some of the most effective tips to reduce your cost of living in Mumbai:
If you are a student, consider going for shared accommodations.
In case you are a couple or have children, choose the size of your property based on the number of family members.
Job seekers should consider living in areas that are near to their workplace.
Use public transport like buses and metro instead of autorickshaws and cabs.
Do your own housework to avoid costs related to hiring a maid.
Shop at local markets for your everyday needs.
Cook at home to save on dining-out costs.
Leverage the free recreational facilities in your area.
Make a comprehensive budget plan and regularly track your expenses.
Cost of Living in Mumbai vs Other Metro Cities
Compared to other major metropolitan cities in India, the cost of living in Mumbai is the highest. cost of living in Delhi and living expenses in Bangalore are cheaper in comparison, while Chennai has the lowest overall living costs.
Find more details in the table below:
Important Things to Know Before Moving to Mumbai
Listed below are some of the essential factors that you must know before shifting to Mumbai:
Job Market and Economy
Mumbai is India's financial capital, offering many job opportunities across industries like banking, financial services, IT, consumer packaged goods, etc. Moreover, it houses the Bollywood film industry, which attracts people from all over the country.
Accommodation Options
You will find many housing options in Mumbai, including flats, standalone houses, apartments in gated complexes, bungalows, etc. Thus, whether you are a bachelor or have a family, you can find a property that can cater to your requirements.
Weather and Climate
Mumbai has a maritime climate due to its proximity to the sea. Thus, it is relatively warm throughout the year. Humidity levels are usually high, and waterlogging and flooding are common during the monsoon season. Thus, if you relocate to Mumbai, try renting flats in an area that is not prone to waterlogging.
Transportation Challenges
Mumbai has some of the worst traffic in the country. However, the city has an extensive network of trains, enabling you to reach any part of the metropolitan with ease.
Language and Communication
In Mumbai, most people speak Marathi. However, you can easily communicate using Hindi and English.
Now that you have a clear idea of the cost of living in Mumbai, you can easily plan out a monthly budget before moving to this city. Also, remember that the cost of living will not be the same for everyone.
Thus, you need to plan your expenses based on your lifestyle choices and personal expenses before moving.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mumbai an expensive city for expatriates?
According to Mercer’s 2024 Cost of Living Survey, Mumbai is the costliest city in India for expatriates. Moreover, since 2023, it has moved up 11 spots, thus becoming the 136th most expensive city for expatriates worldwide.
Why is Mumbai so expensive?
Owing to the high cost of land, the commercial and residential spaces in the city come at a high price. This is the primary reason for Mumbai being the most expensive city in India.
What is the average living cost in Mumbai in 2024?
The average cost of living in Mumbai usually ranges from ₹30,000 to ₹60,000 per month. However, it will tend to differ based on location, number of family members, lifestyle, personal expenses, etc.
What is the average cost of living in Mumbai for bachelors?
For bachelors, the cost of living in Mumbai is approximately ₹25,000 to ₹30,000 per month, covering rent, groceries, transportation, and lifestyle costs.
What are the living costs for couples in Mumbai?
The cost of living in Mumbai for couples is generally around ₹40,000 to ₹60,000 per month. However, it will tend to differ based on accommodation choices, lifestyle, spending habits, etc.
What is the cost of living for a single person in Goregaon Mumbai?
The cost of living in Goregaon, Mumbai, for a single person can range from ₹20,000 to ₹30,000 per month (without rent). Renting a PG in Goregaon can cost between ₹12,500 to ₹40,000.
How much salary do you need to live comfortably in Mumbai?
To live comfortably in Mumbai, you need a monthly salary of at least ₹30,000 to ₹60,000.
How much will it cost to buy a house in Mumbai?
In Mumbai, flat rates usually range from ₹65 Lakh to ₹9 Crore. However, property prices tend to differ based on factors like size, location, amenities, etc.
How much salary is enough to live in Mumbai in 2024?
To live comfortably in Mumbai in 2024, you need to earn a monthly salary of at least ₹30,000 to ₹60,000.
Is it better to rent or purchase property in Mumbai?
Rent is better if you are relocating to Mumbai for better employment opportunities. However, if you wish to settle down in this city with your family in the long run, buying property will be a better choice.
How much salary can I get in Mumbai?
The average salary in Mumbai ranges from ₹4.4 LPA to ₹8.54 LPA. However, it can vary depending on the individual’s designation, experience, qualifications, organisation, etc.
What are the average living costs in Mumbai without rent?
The average living costs in Mumbai without rent for bachelors is approximately ₹30,000 per month. In case of a family of 4, this cost will rise to ₹1 Lakh.
Is Mumbai a costly city?
Mumbai is India's most expensive city, with overall living costs ranging from ₹58,000 to ₹1,34,500 per month.
Can an individual survive alone in Mumbai?
If you are a first-time student or working professional, you can survive alone in Mumbai by opting for shared accommodations near your educational institute or workplace, using public transport, and maintaining a minimalist lifestyle.
What are the average living costs for a family in Mumbai?
The average living costs for a family in Mumbai generally range between ₹40,000 to ₹80,500 per month. However, it can vary based on the number of members, accommodation type, location, and other factors.
What factors should I consider when calculating the cost of living in Mumbai?
When calculating the cost of living in Mumbai, you need to consider factors like rent, groceries, distance from your workplace, utility bills, domestic services costs, personal expenses, etc.
What is the minimum salary required to live in Mumbai?
You need a salary of at least ₹30,000 per month to live in Mumbai in 2024.
Is a salary of 1 lakh good enough to survive in Mumbai?
A salary of 1 Lakh can be decent enough to live in Mumbai, provided you live in areas with affordable rent.
Is 50 LPA a decent salary in Mumbai?
A salary of 50 LPA in Mumbai is adequate to maintain a family having 6 to 7 members.
Can I survive in Mumbai with a salary of ₹25K?
Surviving in Mumbai with a salary of ₹25K can be challenging. To save costs, consider opting for shared accommodations near your workplace and public transport.
Is 50K a decent salary to survive in Mumbai?
50K is a decent salary to survive in Mumbai if you are a bachelor or a couple. However, this salary may be insufficient if you have dependents or high personal expenses.