Most Expensive City in India: Living, Renting & Buying Costs

Have you ever wondered which city holds the title of being the priciest? Whether it’s the soaring cost of real estate, luxurious lifestyles, or high living expenses, some cities are known as the prime destinations for the wealthy.

This comprehensive guide delves into the most expensive city in India, offering valuable insights for those looking to invest in real estate and seeking clarity on where to put their money.

List of 10 Most Expensive City in India

1: Mumbai - Most Expensive City in India

Mumbai is the financial hub and the most expensive city in India. Its prime location along the Arabian Sea and booming economy attract millions for job and educational opportunities.

High demand for housing in areas like South Mumbai, Bandra, and Juhu drives up real estate prices, while the city’s infrastructure, entertainment industry, and business opportunities further elevate the cost of living.

Cost of Living in Mumbai:

Particulars	Approximate Cost (Per Month)
Living Cost	Bachelors: Rs. 18,500 - Rs. 20,000
	Students:  Rs. 18,500 - Rs. 20,500
	Family:  Rs. 40,500 - Rs. 50,500
	Working Couple:  Rs. 30,500 - Rs. 60,500
Renting	Central Location: Rs. 75,500 - Rs. 1.55 Lakh
	Suburbs: Rs. 30,500 - Rs. 50,500
Buying Property	2 BHK: Rs. 45 Lakh - Rs. 2.70 Crore
	3 BHK: Rs. 3 Crore - Rs. 10 Crore

2: Delhi - 2nd Most Expensive City in India

Delhi, India’s capital, is a hub for politics, business, and culture, drawing professionals and entrepreneurs. Areas like Lutyens' Delhi, South Delhi, and Chanakyapuri are known for their high real estate prices. The city’s thriving IT, banking, healthcare, and education sectors create strong demand for premium housing. Upscale markets, historical landmarks, and modern amenities add to its appeal, driving up the cost of living.

Particulars	Approximate Cost (Per Month)
Living Cost	Bachelors: Rs. 22,500 - Rs. 24,500
	Students:  Rs. 20,500 - Rs. 25,500
	Family: Rs. 70,500 - Rs. 75,500
	Working Couple: Rs. 25,500 - Rs. 40,500
Renting	Central Location: Rs. 75,500 - Rs. 1.25 Lakh
	Suburbs:  Rs. 30,000 - Rs. 40,000
Buying Property	2 BHK: Rs. 25 Lakh - Rs. 1.70 Crore
	3 BHK: Rs. 65 Lakh - Rs. 5.3 Crore

3: Bangalore -  3rd Most Expensive City in India

Bangalore, known as the Silicon Valley of India, is a major hub for technology and innovation. Its rise as a global IT centre has driven up real estate demand and living costs, making it one of the priciest cities in India. Areas like Indiranagar, Koramangala, and Whitefield are known for their premium lifestyle and high housing prices. With excellent infrastructure, top-tier educational institutions, and advanced healthcare, the city attracts IT professionals from around the world.

Particulars	Approximate Cost (Per Month)
Living Cost	Bachelors: Rs. 30,500 - Rs. 32,500
	Students: Rs. 15,000 - Rs. 25,000
	Family: Rs. 60,500 - Rs. 75,500
	Working Couple: Rs. 25,500 - Rs. 30,500
Renting	Central Location: Rs. 35,500 - Rs. 60,500
	Suburbs: Rs. 20,500 - Rs. 35,500
Buying Property	2 BHK:  Rs. 53.5 Lakh - Rs. 1.45 Crore
	3 BHK:  Rs. 90 Lakh - Rs. 3.15 Crore

4: Hyderabad - 4th Most Expensive City in India

Hyderabad offers a blend of affordability and luxury, but areas like Jubilee Hills and Banjara Hills make it one of India’s costliest cities. Known for its thriving IT and pharmaceutical industries, the city attracts professionals seeking top-notch infrastructure, quality housing, and modern amenities. The high demand for upscale residences in these posh neighbourhoods has significantly driven up property prices.

Particulars	Approximate Cost (Per Month)
Living Cost	Bachelors: Rs. 12,500 - Rs. 25,500
	Students: Rs. 10,500 - Rs. 20,500
	Family: Rs. 30,500 - Rs. 50,500
	Working Couple: Rs. 20,500 - Rs. 30,500
Renting	Central Location: Rs. 50,500 Onwards
	Suburbs: Rs. 15,500 - Rs. 30,500
Buying Property	2 BHK: Rs. 44.5 Lakh - Rs. 1.31 Crore
	3 BHK: Rs. 85.5 Lakh - Rs. 2.35 Crore

5: Chennai - 5th Among the Most Expensive Cities in India

Chennai, a city blending tradition and modernity, ranks among India’s priciest cities due to its booming IT, automobile, and healthcare sectors. The city attracts professionals from across the country, driving up housing demand and property prices. With its cultural heritage, top schools, hospitals, and scenic beaches, Chennai offers a high standard of living. Popular areas like Boat Club Road, Nungambakkam, and Anna Nagar feature luxurious residences, further contributing to rising living costs.

Particulars	Approximate Cost (Per Month)
Living Cost	Bachelors: Rs. 15,500 - Rs. 25,500
	Students: Rs. 10,500 - Rs. 20,500
	Family: Rs. 30,500 - Rs. 50,500
	Working Couple: Rs. 20,500 - Rs. 30,500
Renting	Central Location: Rs. 35,500 - Rs. 50,500
	Suburbs: Rs. 15,500 Onwards
Buying Property	2 BHK: Rs. 40.5 Lakh - Rs. 98.5 Lakh
	3 BHK: Rs. 66 Lakh - Rs. 3.07 Crore

6: Pune - 6th One of the Most Expensive Cities in India

Pune, known for its tech and educational prominence, has become one of India’s costliest cities due to rapid urbanisation and an influx of young professionals and families. Upscale areas like Koregaon Park and Kalyani Nagar, known for their luxurious residences, have significantly contributed to rising living expenses.

Particulars	Approximate Cost (Per Month)
Living Cost	Bachelors:  Rs. 18,500 Onwards
	Students: Rs. 16,500 Onwards
	Family:  Rs. 40,500 Onwards
	Working Couple:  Rs. 30,000 - Rs. 40,000
Renting	Central Location: Rs. 40,500 Onwards
	Suburbs: Rs. 20,500 - Rs. 30,500
Buying Property	2 BHK: Rs. 45.5. Lakh - Rs. 1.25 Crore
	3 BHK: Rs. 87 Lakh - Rs. 2.45 Crore

7: Kolkata - 7th Status as a Most Expensive City in India

Kolkata, known as the "City of Joy," blends rich cultural heritage with modern development. While generally considered affordable, areas like Ballygunge and Alipore contribute to its status as one of India’s costliest cities. The city’s growing real estate sector is fueled by rising demand for quality housing.

Particulars	Approximate Cost (Per Month)
Living Cost	Bachelors: Rs. 12,500 - Rs. 22,000
	Students: Rs. 4,500 - Rs. 9,500
	Family: Rs. 26,500- Rs. 67,500
	Working Couple:  Rs. 25,500 - Rs. 40,500
Renting	Central Location: Rs. 50,500 Onwards
	Suburbs: Rs. 16,000 Onwards
Buying Property	2 BHK: Rs. 24.5 Lakh - Rs. 83.4 Lakh
	3 BHK: Rs. 43.8 Lakh - Rs. 2 Crore

8: Gurgaon - 8th One of the Most Expensive Cities in India

Gurgaon, known for its iconic skyscrapers and global corporate presence, ranks among India’s most expensive cities. Its high cost of living is driven by premium housing, modern infrastructure, and a strong job market, especially in IT and finance. With the highest purchasing power in India, Gurgaon attracts an affluent population. Luxury neighbourhoods like Golf Course Road and DLF Phase 5 are particularly pricey, thanks to their proximity to corporate hubs and upscale amenities.

Particulars	Approximate Cost (Per Month)
Living Cost	Bachelors: Rs. 30,500 Onwards
	Students: Rs. 25,500 - Rs. 35,500
	Family: Rs. 60,500 - Rs. 70,500
	Working Couple: Rs. 30,500 Onwards
Renting	Central Location: Rs. 51,000 Onwards
	Suburbs: Rs. 20,500 - Rs. 30,500
Buying Property	2 BHK: Rs. 59.6 Lakh - Rs. 2.51 Crore
	3 BHK: Rs. 1.48 Crore - Rs. 4.74 Crore

9: Ahmedabad - 9th Becoming One of the Most Expensive Cities in India

Ahmedabad, Gujarat's economic hub, has become one of India’s costliest cities due to rapid industrial and urban growth. The thriving manufacturing and IT sectors, along with increasing urbanisation, have boosted demand for housing and premium residential projects.

Particulars	Approximate Cost (Per Month)
Living Cost	Bachelors: Rs. 12,000 - Rs. 15,000
	Students: Rs. 11,500 - Rs. 16,500
	Family: Rs. 39,500 Onwards
	Working Couple: Rs. 19,500 - Rs. 29,500
Renting	Central Location: Rs. 25,500 Onwards
	Suburbs: Rs. 10,500 - Rs. 15,500
Buying Property	2 BHK:  Rs. 34.1 Lakh - Rs. 70.5 Lakh
	3 BHK: Rs. 65.5 Lakh - Rs. 1.56 Crore

10: Chandigarh - 10th Most Expensive Cities in India

Chandigarh, known for its meticulously planned architecture and high quality of life, ranks among India’s costliest cities. Designed by Le Corbusier, it was one of the first planned cities post-independence and is internationally acclaimed for its urban design. Areas like Sector 9, Sector 5, and Sector 8 are particularly expensive due to their premium amenities, securing their place in the most expensive city in India.

Particulars	Approximate Cost (Per Month)
Living Cost	Bachelors: Rs. 34,000 Onwards
	Students: Rs. 12,500 Onwards
	Family: Rs. 52,500 Onwards
	Working Couple: Rs. 40,500 Onwards
Renting	Central Location: Rs. 35,500 Onwards
	Suburbs: Rs. 15,500 - Rs. 20,500
Buying Property	2 BHK: Rs. 37.5 Lakh - Rs. 88.4 Lakh
	3 BHK: Rs. 75 Lakh - Rs. 1.56 Crore