India’s rich culture and fast-growing economy make it an attractive destination for expats, returning non-resident Indians, and digital nomads alike. But relocating isn’t just about choosing the right city or job: it also requires clear, long-term financial planning. Understanding the cost of living in India in 2026 can help you budget accurately and plan your savings with confidence.
That’s why we’ve created this guide at Remitly: to break down everyday costs in simple terms. We’ll cover housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and education so you know exactly what to expect when making the move.
Overview: is India expensive?
India remains one of the most affordable countries to live in, especially compared to the US, UK, and much of Europe. Everyday essentials such as food, transportation, and basic services cost less than in those regions.
However, housing, education, and private healthcare expenses are rising, especially in modern urban areas. Still, the Indian rupee offers strong buying power for those earning in foreign currencies, and how much you spend ultimately depends on your lifestyle—living like a local, using public transit, cooking at home, and renting modest housing keeps costs low.
Opting for a more expat-style lifestyle in a luxury apartment, using private transportation, educating your children in international schools, and dining out frequently will increase your expenses noticeably. India offers both lifestyles, so you can choose a life that fits your budget.
Housing costs: rent and utilities
Housing costs in India vary widely between major metropolitan areas and smaller cities. In major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru, rent is significantly higher due to strong demand, developed infrastructure, and abundant job opportunities. Let’s take a look at some figures. Prices are given in rupees and US dollars throughout this article, and are correct at time of writing.
Mumbai is the most expensive, with monthly rents ranging widely depending on where you are in the city and, of course, the size of the apartment. For a one-bedroom place you can expect to pay anything from ₹38,300 to ₹92,200 ($425 to $1,025) in Mumbai, while in Bengaluru, for example, you’d pay between ₹20,000 and ₹80,000 ($223 to $890).
In contrast, less expensive cities such as Pune offer more low-budget options. Monthly rent ranges from ₹15,300 to ₹27,500 ($170 to $306) for a one-bedroom apartment, making it ideal for those seeking lower living costs without sacrificing urban amenities.
If you have a family, of course, you’ll need a larger place. Some example figures for three-bedroom apartments would range from:
- Mumbai
₹100,000 to ₹300,000/month ($1,120 to $3,340) - Bengaluru
₹50,000 to ₹120,000/month ($560 to $1,334) - Pune
₹50,000 to ₹80,000/month ($560 to $890)
Bear in mind that Indian landlords usually require a security deposit when you rent a home. It’s a safety payment that’s refundable at the end of the lease if there’s no damage or unpaid rent. The amount can range from two to ten months’ rent upfront, depending on the city and property type.
Utility bills
Utility costs in India are generally affordable but they vary based on usage.
Electricity and basic utilities
For an average 914 ft2 apartment, monthly costs for electricity, water, garbage, heating, and cooling may range from ₹2,000 to ₹4,000 ($23 to $46), depending on your consumption and the city.
Internet
Unlimited broadband plans with speed of 60 Mbps or higher usually cost between ₹500 and ₹1,000/month ($5.50 to $11). This makes fast and reliable home internet widely accessible and inexpensive by US standards.
Food and groceries
Just like in the US, grocery prices can vary quite a bit in India, depending on where and how you shop. You can spend less by cooking at home or significantly more if you prefer imported brands.
Cooking at home
Grocery prices for fresh fruits, vegetables, and everyday staples are affordable, especially when bought from local markets (“mandis”) or neighborhood shops. Basic items like rice, local cheese, chicken, and eggs cost far less than they do in US supermarkets.
- 2.2 lb (1 kg) of white rice: ₹60 to ₹100 ($0.70 to $1.11)
- 2.2 lb (1 kg) of local cheese: ₹220 to ₹1,000 ($2.45 to $11.15)
- 2.2 lb (1 kg) of chicken fillets: ₹150 to ₹449 ($1.70 to $5)
- 2.2 lb (1 kg) of local beef: ₹220 to ₹850 ($2.45 to $9.50) depending on the cut
- 12 large eggs: ₹60 to ₹120 ($0.67 to $1.34)
Shopping locally allows you to enjoy fresh, high-quality ingredients while keeping monthly grocery costs very low by US standards.
Dining out:
Eating out in India is very affordable, with choices to fit almost any budget.
- A meal at a family run, local restaurant typically costs between ₹100 to ₹500 ($1.11 to $5.60)
- A three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant usually ranges from ₹700 to ₹3,000 ($7.80 to $33.40)
- A combo meal at McDonald’s can cost ₹299 to ₹500 ($3.40 to $5.60)
This variety makes it easy to adjust your food budget based on your lifestyle and preferences.
Imported goods
Imported items such as European cheeses, breakfast cereals, chocolates, wines, and specialty sauces are more expensive than local products in India. Due to import duties and shipping costs, prices can be two to five times higher than in Western countries.
These items are affordable occasionally for many immigrants, but buying them regularly can significantly increase your monthly grocery budget.
Transportation
There are plenty of options for getting around, including extremely cheap public transportation.
Public transit
Major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad have expanding metro networks that make commuting fast and cost-effective. A one-way local transit ticket typically costs between ₹15 and ₹60 ($0.17 to $0.67), while monthly passes range from about ₹225 to ₹2,000 ($2.50 to $22.20).
Shared transport options like local buses further reduce daily travel costs. Taxi fares, meanwhile, usually start around ₹30 to ₹150 ($0.33 to $1.67) for a short trip within the city.
Ride-hailing apps
Ride-hailing services such as Uber, Ola, and Rapido (for motorcycle rides) are widely available in major cities and offer a convenient alternative to public transportation if the heavy traffic doesn’t bother you.
Fares for short trips may start between ₹40 and ₹150 ($0.44 to $1.67), while longer rides within city limits cost around ₹300 to ₹800 ($3.35 to $8.90).
For many expats and digital nomads, ride-hailing apps are often cheaper and more practical than owning a car, especially when considering parking challenges and ongoing maintenance costs.
Owning a vehicle
Owning your own car or moped provides more freedom but comes with higher expenses. Fuel prices have risen steadily lately, with gasoline costing between ₹350 to ₹400 per gallon ($3.87 to $4.40), while diesel is slightly cheaper in most major cities.
On top of fuel, costs such as insurance and registration can add up quickly. For most foreigners, public transportation remains much the more affordable choice, if you don’t mind the bustle that goes with it.
Healthcare and education
India has a robust healthcare system, with high-quality private hospitals and clinics in major cities. Facilities in urban centers like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad are well-regarded, and the cost of private medical care is much lower than in the US or Europe.
Typical costs include:
- Primary care physician consultation: ₹500 to ₹1,500 ($6 to $16.70)
- Specialist consultation: ₹500 to ₹5,000 ($6 to $36)
- Hospital stays: private room rates vary by hospital type and city
Like anywhere else, prices for private healthcare in India can fluctuate depending on the city, the doctor’s experience, the clinic’s reputation, and the type of specialist.
Insurance
Although healthcare expenses in India are lower than the US, consider getting comprehensive health insurance to cover unexpected medical emergencies, hospitalizations, and specialist care that could be costly in private hospitals.
You can choose plans that include medical evacuation or coverage for treatment abroad, too, providing extra peace of mind if you prefer to recover back home.
International schools
For families relocating with children, education is a major expense to plan for. There’s plenty of choice in India: international schools offer curricula such as IB (International Baccalaureate), India’s own Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), or the UK’s Cambridge.
These programs are usually taught in English and facilities generally meet global standards. Tuition fees vary by city and program.
Domestic help
Another reason many people from overseas choose to live in India is the availability and affordability of domestic help. Many households, especially busy professionals or families in urban areas, hire staff for tasks like cooking, cleaning, laundry, and driving.
Employing live-in, domestic help is common in middle- to-upper-class households. Costs depend on whether you hire part-time or full-time help, as well as your location and your helper’s range of duties.
Part-time help (two to three days per week)
- Housekeeper or cleaner: ₹3,000 to ₹6,500/month ($33 to $72.50)
- Cook: ₹4,800 to ₹11,000/month ($53.50 to $122)
Full-time help (six days/week or live-in staff)
- Housekeeper or cleaner: ₹10,000 to ₹18,000/month ($111 to $200)
- Cook: ₹8,000 to ₹15,000/month ($89 to $167)
- Driver: ₹12,000 to ₹23,000/month ($134 to $256)
Hiring domestic help in India is common and often organized through an agency, with standard employment contracts being strongly recommended over verbal agreements. Additional considerations, such as paid leave and insurance, may apply, depending on your specific circumstances and those of the person you take on.
Planning your move with confidence
Despite its cost of living rising just like everywhere else, India remains an affordable destination for many immigrants and non-resident Indians in 2026. From housing and groceries to transportation and domestic help, there are lifestyle options to suit a variety of budgets and preferences. Understanding typical costs in major cities, smaller towns, and emerging areas helps you plan effectively and avoid surprises.
Regardless of your lifestyle in the US, living in India would likely be very different, and therefore quite an adventure. But with a growing economy, a strong sense of community and huge diversity within its borders, we understand why plenty of people are thinking about it. Good luck!
FAQs
What’s a good salary to live comfortably in India in 2026?
A comfortable, middle-class lifestyle for a single person might range from ₹109,000 to ₹180,000/month ($1,200 to $2,000). For a family of four, you’d need about ₹270,000 to ₹450,000/month ($3,000 to $5,000) to cover housing, food, transportation, education, and healthcare. Your comfort ultimately depends on the city and lifestyle you choose.
Is healthcare free in India for expats?
No, healthcare is not free for expats in India. Most expats use private hospitals and clinics, paying out-of-pocket or through international or local insurance. Budgeting for routine check-ups, emergencies, and prescription medications is essential.
Which city has the highest cost of living in India?
Mumbai has the highest living costs, followed by Delhi and Bengaluru. Expenses in these areas are driven mainly by costlier housing, private schooling, and imported goods. Smaller cities and towns are much more affordable.
Can I live in India on $1,000 a month?
Yes, but mainly in smaller cities or towns outside major metros. In Mumbai or Delhi, ₹90,000 ($1,000) would cover only basic needs and require strict budgeting. In less pricey cities, the same amount could provide a comfortable lifestyle with careful planning and budgeting.