Patna, the capital of Bihar, is rapidly emerging as a dynamic, budget-friendly city. With its expanding infrastructure and rich cultural heritage, Patna offers a significantly lower cost of living than major metropolitan cities in India.
The city caters to families, professionals, and students alike, providing affordable housing, economical transportation, and reasonably priced essentials. Whether you’re looking to rent or buy property, Patna strikes a perfect balance between affordability and convenience, making it an ideal place for a fulfilling lifestyle.
This comprehensive guide highlights the various factors that affect the cost of living in Patna, including housing, utilities, and leisure expenses. It will help you budget wisely and enjoy all the city offers.
Restaurants in Patna offer delicious meals at prices significantly lower than those in major metropolitan cities. A simple meal can cost between Rs. 80 and Rs. 250, whereas in cities like Delhi or Mumbai, the same could range from Rs. 300 to Rs. 600.
Even upscale dining remains budget-friendly, allowing residents to enjoy great food without stretching their wallets.
Particulars |
Approximate Cost |
A basic meal in an inexpensive restaurant |
Rs. 250 |
Three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant |
Rs. 450 per person |
Domestic beer (500 ml) |
Rs. 200 |
Imported beer (330 ml bottle) |
Rs. 810 |
Cappuccino |
Rs. 135 |
Coke/Pepsi (330 ml bottle) |
Rs. 35 |
Water (330 ml bottle) |
Rs. 15 |
McMeal in McDonald's |
Rs. 280 |
Groceries in Patna are quite affordable, with essential items like fruits and vegetables priced lower than in major cities. For instance, a kilogram of white rice costs around Rs. 55 in Patna, whereas it could be Rs. 150 or more in metropolitan areas. Local markets provide fresh produce at budget-friendly rates, making daily essentials more accessible to residents.
Particulars |
Approximate Cost |
White Rice (1 kg) |
Rs. 55 |
Milk (1 litre) |
Rs. 60 |
White bread (500 gm) |
Rs. 40 |
Eggs (1 dozen) |
Rs. 95 |
Chicken (1 kg) |
Rs. 220 |
Onion (1 kg) |
Rs. 45 |
Potato (1 kg) |
Rs. 35 |
Tomato (1 kg) |
Rs. 50 |
Apple (1 kg) |
Rs. 125 |
Orange (1 kg) |
Rs. 100 |
When it comes to the cost of living in Patna, the cost-effective transport system ensures residents can travel conveniently without straining their finances.
Public transportation in Patna is highly affordable, with bus fares and auto-rickshaw charges significantly lower than those in metro cities. A monthly bus pass costs around Rs. 350, making commuting budget-friendly compared to cities like Mumbai.
Particulars |
Approximate Cost |
One-way ticket in a local transport |
Rs. 35 |
Monthly pass |
Rs. 350 |
Taxi tariff per km |
Rs. 18 |
Taxi tariff for 1 hour of waiting |
Rs. 210 |
Gasoline |
Rs. 105 per litre |
The living cost in Patna is also dependent on expenses related to utilities. Monthly utilities in Patna, including electricity, water, and internet, typically range between Rs. 3,000 and Rs. 4,000 significantly lower than in metropolitan cities, where these expenses can exceed Rs. 7,000. This lower cost of utilities plays a crucial role in making Patna an affordable place to live.
Particulars |
Approximate Cost |
Basic amenities like heating, cooling, electricity and water |
Rs. 3,850 |
Mobile phone (Monthly plan) |
Rs. 280 |
Internet cost (Unlimited data) |
Rs. 750 |
Fitness memberships and recreational activities in Patna are budget-friendly compared to larger cities. A gym membership costs around Rs. 2,200 per month, whereas in cities like Bangalore or Mumbai, it can range from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 5,000.
Entertainment options, including movies and cultural events, are also reasonably priced, allowing residents to enjoy an active and engaging lifestyle without overspending.
Particulars |
Approximate Cost |
Gym membership per month |
Rs. 2,200 |
Tennis court rent per hour |
Rs. 650 |
Movie ticket per seat |
Rs. 350 |
Patna provides affordable childcare options, with preschool fees starting at around Rs. 4,350 per month. This makes it a budget-friendly choice for families, especially when compared to the significantly higher costs in metropolitan cities.
Particulars |
Approximate Cost |
Preschool/kindergarten |
Rs. 4,350 per month |
International primary school |
Rs. 1.65 Lakh per year |
Clothing and footwear in Patna are more affordable than in cities like Delhi or Mumbai. A pair of jeans typically costs between Rs. 1,050 and Rs. 3,550, making the city an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a budget-friendly lifestyle without compromising on quality.
Particulars |
Approximate Cost |
Pair of jeans |
Rs. 2,300 |
Summer dress |
Rs. 2,450 |
Pair of running shoes |
Rs. 3,700 |
Pair of men's leather business shoes |
Rs. 3,250 |
Renting a 1 BHK apartment in Patna is highly affordable, with monthly rents ranging from Rs. 5,400 to Rs. 9,000 far lower than in major metropolitan cities. This affordability makes Patna an attractive option for both singles and families seeking a cost-effective yet comfortable lifestyle.
Particulars |
Approximate Cost |
1 BHK apartment |
City centre: Rs. 8,900 per month |
Outside city: Rs. 5,400 per month |
|
3 BHK apartment |
City centre: Rs. 22,500 per month |
Outside city: Rs. 15,000 per month |
Patna presents an appealing real estate investment market, with average flat prices ranging from Rs. 28.2 lakh to Rs. 2.83 crore. The median price for multistorey apartments is around Rs. 76 lakh, making it a sought-after destination for real estate investors. Property prices in Patna vary depending on the area, as detailed below:
Name of the Area |
Average Price |
Mainpura |
Rs. 3,900 per sq ft |
Rs. 4,000 per sq ft |
|
Rs. 5,600 per sq ft |
|
Rs. 5,800 per sq ft |
|
Mustafapur |
Rs. 6,400 per sq ft |
Salaries in Patna are generally lower than in major metro cities, but the significantly lower cost of living helps maintain a comfortable lifestyle. Additionally, financial services such as loans and credit are readily available with competitive interest rates, making it convenient for residents to manage their finances despite earning lower incomes.
Particulars |
Approximate Cost |
Monthly salary after tax deduction |
Rs. 31,500 |
Mortgage interest rate (yearly basis) |
9.05 % |
Healthcare costs in Patna are generally affordable, especially in government facilities. However, the healthcare infrastructure in the district faces challenges, particularly in urban areas.
A shortage of specialists and inadequate staffing at Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and block levels often lead people to seek care at private clinics, which can be more expensive.
The cost of living in Patna is notably lower than in many major Indian cities. Transportation and dining out in Patna are much cheaper, while expenses like housing, clothing, childcare, entertainment, and groceries are also more affordable.
The cost of living in Patna is 12.2% lower than in Delhi without rent, making it a desirable location for everyone.
Yes, Patna is a suitable place for families due to its affordable living costs. The city has shown significant improvement in its ranking on the Ease of Living Index 2020, conducted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
With lower expenses for housing, transportation, and daily essentials, Patna provides families with a cost-effective yet comfortable lifestyle.
You can follow the below-mentioned tips to save money while living in Patna: