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What is the Cost of Living in Delhi in 2025?

Delhi, the capital of India, is the most multicultural and diversified city in the country. It houses a developing IT sector, bustling commercial areas, and premier educational institutes, serving as an ideal destination for individuals looking for better career opportunities, business prospects, or higher education.

As a result, Delhi attracts bachelors, students, and families from all over the country. So, if you are considering relocating to this city, knowing the cost of living in Delhi is crucial.

Keep scrolling for a detailed guide!

Team Digit

Average Cost of Living in Delhi
Factors Determining the Cost of Living
Tips on Reducing the Cost of Living
Delhi vs Other Metro Cities
Important Things to Know
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Average Cost of Living in Delhi?

The average cost of living in Delhi is significantly lower than that of other major metropolitan cities in India. However, it usually depends upon an individual’s lifestyle, personal expenses, and accommodation.

Check out the average costs of living in Delhi in the table below:

Area of Expense	Cost
Rent	₹5,000 to ₹60,000
Entertainment	₹4,000 to ₹10,000
Groceries	₹1,000 to ₹15,000
Transportation	₹1,000 to ₹7,000
Utilities	₹600 to ₹6,000
Schooling of children	₹3,000 to ₹20,000

Cost of Living in Delhi for Bachelors

Living expenses in Delhi for bachelors usually include rent, groceries, utilities, and transportation. However, they tend to vary among individuals based on location, personal spending habits, and lifestyle choices.

Find the key expenses of bachelors in Delhi in the table below:

Area of Expense	Price Range
Accommodation	₹5,000 - ₹18,000
Groceries	₹2,000 - ₹5,000
Utilities	₹1,000 - ₹2,000
Transportation	₹1,000 - ₹2,500
Housemaid	Starts from ₹5,000
Entertainment and Shopping	₹4,000 - ₹8,000
Wi-Fi	Starts from ₹700
Bus Pass/Metro Pass	Starts from ₹1000
Miscellaneous	₹3,000 - ₹5,000

Cost of Living in Delhi for Students

The living cost in Delhi for students ranges from ₹12,000 to ₹15,000. This includes rent, food, transportation, utilities, and more.

Here are the key expenses for students in Delhi:

Area of Expense	Price Range
Rent (shared apartment)	₹7,500 to ₹23,000
Rent (single room PG)	₹15,000 to ₹93,500
Food (monthly)	₹3,000 to ₹5,000
Transportation (monthly)	₹500 to ₹1,500
Utilities (monthly)	₹600 to ₹1,500
Wi-Fi	Starts from ₹700
Miscellaneous	₹3,000 - ₹5,000
Bus Pass/Metro Pass	Starts from ₹1,000

Cost of Living in Delhi for Family

For families, the cost of living in Delhi depends upon factors like number of members, accommodation, children’s educational expenses, groceries, and more.

Check them out in the table below:

Area of Expense	Price Range
Accommodation	₹15,000 - ₹60,000
Groceries & Food	₹8,000 - ₹25,000
Transportation	₹2,500 - ₹4,000
Utilities	₹3,000 - ₹8,000
Entertainment & Shopping	₹1,500 - ₹4,000 per person
Education & Daycare	₹5,000 - ₹25,000
Housemaid	Starts from ₹5,000
Wi-Fi	Starts from ₹700
Miscellaneous	₹ 6,000 - ₹ 24,000

Cost of Living in Delhi for Couples

Living expenses for couples in Delhi include rent, utilities, transportation, groceries, and other miscellaneous costs like entertainment and dining out.

Take a look at the key expenses in the table below:

Area of Expense	Price Range
1 BHK apartment for rent	₹15,000
2 BHK apartments for rent	₹15,000 - ₹20,000
Electricity bill	₹1,000 onwards
Bus pass	₹2,000 onwards
Wi-Fi	Starts from ₹700
Groceries	₹ 6,000
Meal for two	₹1,200 - ₹5,000
Housemaid	Starts from ₹5,000
Miscellaneous	₹6,000 - ₹12,000

Factors That Determine the Cost of Living in Delhi

There are several factors on which the monthly cost of living in Delhi depends. These factors include–

1. Accommodation

Finding a decent living space in Delhi is easier and comparatively cheaper than the other metropolitan cities in India. Individuals get several options when choosing a living space, starting from the budget and going up to luxury spaces.

Classification of Rentals	Price Range
1 BHK	₹15,000
2 BHK	₹15,000 - ₹20,000
3 BHK	₹60,000 onwards
Paying Guest	₹5,000 - ₹10,000

Find the approximate cost to rent and purchase property in the most affordable and posh areas in Delhi:

Location	Category	Approx. Rent Per Month	Buying Cost per sq ft.
Rohini	Affordable	Starting ₹6,000	Starting ₹12,000
Lajpat Nagar	Affordable	Starting ₹7,000	Starting ₹18,469
Mayur Vihar	Affordable	Starting ₹8,000	Starting ₹12,750
Dwarka	Affordable	Starting ₹8,000	Starting ₹11,158
Karol Bagh	Affordable	Starting ₹8,000	Starting ₹20,850
Saket	Affordable	Starting ₹10,000	Starting ₹14,098
South Delhi	Affordable	Starting ₹10,000	Starting ₹17,749
Safdarjung	Posh	Starting ₹10,000	Starting ₹24,015
Greater Kailash	Posh	Starting ₹15,000	Starting ₹26,001
Hauz Khas	Posh	Starting ₹15,000	Starting ₹26,098
Connaught Place	Posh	Starting ₹18,000	Starting ₹74,295
Shanti Niketan	Posh	Starting ₹1.5 Lakh	Starting ₹39,187

2. Transportation

Delhi is undoubtedly one of the cheapest cities in India in terms of public transport. One can opt for buses, auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws and metro to travel in the city.

Category	Approximate Cost
One-way ticket (public transport)	₹ 35
Monthly pass (public transport)	₹ 1,000
Price of diesel (as of 2nd July)	₹87.62 per litre
Price of petrol (as of 2nd July)	₹94.72 per litre
Rental bikes and scooters	Starts at ₹349 per day
Cabs (minimum cost)	₹40 (base fare)

3. Groceries

The residents of Delhi can readily find a grocery store in their vicinity to shop for the daily required things. Furthermore, you can purchase groceries from several online grocery delivery apps.

Grocery	Price
Regular milk (1 litre)	₹ 68
Fresh white bread (1 loaf)	₹ 41.03
Rice (1 kg)	₹ 55
Regular eggs (1 dozen)	₹ 64.20
Local cheese (1 kg)	₹ 405
Chicken Fillets (1 kg)	₹ 240
Apples (1 kg)	₹ 170
Bananas (1 kg)	₹ 70
Oranges (1 kg)	₹ 80
Tomato (1 kg)	₹ 43
Potato (1 kg)	₹ 20
Onion (1 kg)	₹ 21.56
Lettuce (1 head)	₹ 79

4. Utilities

While considering the cost of living in Delhi, one should add the money spent on utilities to their monthly budget. These utilities include electricity, mobile recharge, unlimited data plans and so on.

Type of Utility	Approximate Cost
Electricity, cooling, heating, garbage, water	₹ 3,000
Local prepaid mobile tariff (1 min)	₹ 1
Unlimited internet, Cable/ADSL	Starting ₹699

5. Entertainment

The money spent on leisure and entertainment purposes plays an essential role in deciding the average cost of living in Delhi for students, bachelors, couples or a family of four. The table illustrated below shows the approximate money spent on entertainment.

Area of Expense	Approximate Cost
1 month gym membership	Starting ₹2,000
1 morning cappuccino	₹ 150
Tennis court rent for 1 hour	₹ 1,690
Cinema (1 seat)	₹ 205
Meal in an affordable restaurant (1 person)	₹ 350
Three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant	₹ 2,000
McMeal at McDonalds	₹ 350

6. Childcare

The cost of living in Delhi for a family of four depends on the money spent on the schooling of kids. Additionally, you can hire a nanny for ₹ 15,000 to take care of your little ones

Schools and Childcare	Approximate Cost
Kindergarten, private, full-day	₹5,000 monthly
International primary school	₹1,25,000 yearly

Tips on Reducing the Cost of Living in Delhi

Listed below are a few tips that can help reduce your overall living costs in Delhi:

Consider commuting via the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses and the metro over auto rickshaws and cabs.
Choose PGs or shared accommodations in inexpensive areas or locations near your workplace.
Shop for groceries and other items at the local markets.
Cook meals at home and do your housework to save the costs of hiring a maid.
Go for the free recreational facilities in your area.
Make a comprehensive budget plan and track your expenses regularly.
Think about getting health insurance for your family to manage the rising cost of healthcare.

Cost of Living in Delhi vs Other Metro Cities

The cost of living in Delhi is lower compared to the cost of living in mumbai. However, it is comparable to the living costs in cities like Bangalore and Chennai. Regarding accommodation, utilities, groceries, and dining out, Delhi is much cheaper than Bangalore, Chennai, and Mumbai.

However, the living cost in Chennai is the lowest, whereas Mumbai has the highest.

Find more details in the table below:

Area of Expense	Delhi (₹)	Bangalore (₹)	Chennai (₹)	Mumbai (₹)
Accommodation	₹5,000 - ₹60,000	₹15,000 - ₹40,000	₹12,000 - ₹35,000	₹25,000 - ₹60,000
Utilities	₹600 - ₹6,000	₹3,000 - ₹5,000	₹3,000 - ₹5,000	₹4,000 - ₹7,000
Groceries	₹1,000 - ₹15,000	₹5,000 - ₹10,000	₹4,500 - ₹9,000	₹6,000 - ₹12,000
Transportation	₹1,000 - ₹7,000	₹1,500 - ₹3,000	₹1,500 - ₹3,000	₹3,000 - ₹5,500
Dining Out	₹1,200 - ₹5,000	₹3,000 - ₹6,000	₹3,000 - ₹6,000	₹4,500 - ₹9,000
Entertainment	₹4,000 - ₹10,000	₹2,000 - ₹5,000	₹2,000 - ₹5,000	₹3,500 - ₹7,000
Education	₹6,000 - ₹20,000	₹5,000 - ₹15,000	₹5,000 - ₹15,000	₹8,000 - ₹25,000
Healthcare	₹3,000 - ₹6,000	₹2,000 - ₹5,000	₹2,500 - ₹5,500	₹4,000 - ₹8,000
Overall Cost	₹42,000 - ₹106,000	₹36,500 - ₹89,000	₹33,500 - ₹83,500	₹58,000 - ₹134,500
Overall Verdict	High	Moderate	Moderate	Very High

Important Things to Know Before Moving to Delhi

Listed below are some essential points that you should know if you are planning to shift to Delhi:

Job Opportunities and Economy

Delhi has a developing IT sector with several top global giants opening their branches in this city. Moreover, it has bustling commercial areas, serving as an ideal place to start a new business.

Accommodation Options

Delhi has several accommodation options, including flats, independent houses, villas, etc. However, the rental prices tend to differ based on the area and social amenities.

Climate and Weather

In Delhi, the summers are very hot, while the winters are very cold. Moreover, between late November and January, there is heavy smog in the city. Thus, you need to take adequate precautions before relocating.

Language and Communication

A majority of the Delhi population speaks Hindi, while others prefer Punjabi, Urdu, or Bengali. Moreover, you can always communicate in English if you do not know any of these languages.

Transportation Challenges

Traffic snarls in Delhi can be a real menace. Thus, you should always consider living near your workplace or commuting to work via the metro.

Now that you have a comprehensive idea of the cost of living in Delhi, you are all set to plan your move. Remember that the average living cost will depend on location and personal expenses.

So, make decisions by keeping your monthly budget in mind.

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Frequently Asked Questions

All

What is the cost of a nanny in Delhi?

Parents can hire nannies from several childcare service providers at ₹ 15,000 per month.

What is the approximate cost of living in Delhi for a student?

The approximate cost of living in Delhi for students ranges from ₹ 12,000 to ₹ 15,000 every month.

What is the cost of renting an apartment in a gated community in Delhi?

The average cost of renting an apartment in a gated community in Delhi usually ranges from ₹18,000 to ₹70,000 per month.

Is daily commuting a hassle in Delhi?

Daily commuting can be a big hassle in Delhi if you do not have a private car. To solve this issue, consider travelling to your workplace via the metro.

What is the average cost of living in Delhi in 2024?

The average cost of living in Delhi in 2024 can range from ₹15,000 to ₹20,000 per month. However, it tends to vary based on location, number of family members, personal expenses, lifestyle choices, etc.

How is Delhi’s connectivity to other cities?

Delhi enjoys superb connectivity to all other cities in India thanks to its extensive road network, railway and airline services.

How much salary do I need to live in Delhi?

To live comfortably in Delhi, you need a salary ranging between ₹30,000 to ₹50,000.

How expensive is life in Delhi?

The average living expenses in Delhi can range from ₹15,000 to ₹20,000 per month. However, it will depend upon the area, number of family members, lifestyle choices and personal expenses.

Is a salary of ₹40,000 enough to live in Delhi?

A salary of ₹40,000 will be sufficient to live in Delhi. However, you need to live in an affordable area.

What are some of the most posh localities in Delhi?

Safdarjung, Greater Kailash, Hauz Khas, Connaught Place and Shanti Niketan are some of the most posh areas in Delhi where the monthly rent starts from ₹10,000 and can go up to ₹1.5 Lakh.

Can I rent a single room in Delhi under ₹1,000?

Rental costs for single rooms in Delhi start from at least ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 per month. Thus, it will be challenging for you to find a single room under ₹1,000.

What is the cost of living for a family of 4 in Delhi?

Living costs for a family of 4 in Delhi can range from ₹50,000 to ₹80,000 per month based on the location, accommodation choices, personal expenses, etc.

Where can I find the best rooms for students in Delhi?

Look up the university boards and local listings to find the best rooms for students in Delhi.

What is the minimum rent for properties in Delhi?

The minimum rent for 1 and 2-BHK flats in Delhi ranges from ₹15,000 to ₹20,000 per month. However, it will depend on the location, amenities, and property type.

How much salary do I need to live comfortably in Delhi?

Earning a salary ranging from ₹30,000 to ₹50,000 per month will allow you to live comfortably in Delhi.

What factors do I need to consider for determining the cost of living in Delhi for UPSC preparation?

To calculate the living costs in Delhi for UPSC preparation, you need to consider factors like rent, groceries and food expenses, coaching fees, study materials and transportation costs.

What are the monthly costs for travelling via Delhi Metro?

The monthly costs of travelling via the Delhi metro depend on the distance you need to cover and the frequency of your trips.

What is the average cost of living in Delhi for couples?

The average cost of living in Delhi for couples ranges from ₹28,500 to ₹45,000, including groceries, rent, utilities, transportation, and entertainment. However, it will tend to differ based on the location and lifestyle choices.

What are some of the cheapest areas to live in Delhi?

Dwarka, Karol Bagh, Govindpuri, Uttam Nagar, Laxmi Nagar, Khanpur and New Ashok Nagar are some of the cheapest areas to live in Delhi.

Which is better for living in Delhi, flat or PG?

Living in a PG is advisable for students or bachelors to save on expenses. However, a flat is a better choice for couples or families.

Is Delhi an expensive city to live in?

Living costs in Delhi are comparatively lower than in other major metropolitan cities like Mumbai. The average living expenses range from ₹15,000 to ₹20,000 per month based on the location, personal expenses and lifestyle choices.

Is 50K a decent salary to live in Delhi?

50K is a good enough salary for you to manage all your living costs in Delhi effortlessly. However, this is only applicable when you are living in affordable areas.

Is a 25K salary enough to survive in Delhi?

To live comfortably in Delhi with a salary of 25K, you need to live in shared accommodations and have a minimalist lifestyle.

Is 40K a good salary to handle the cost of living in Delhi?

40K is a decent salary to handle the living costs in Delhi, provided you are living in an affordable area.

What financial strategies help Delhi residents manage higher living costs?

Residents can maintain financial security by controlling expenses, diversifying investments, and ensuring they have adequate savings. Term insurance further strengthens financial preparedness by protecting dependents in case of an emergency.

How much HRA can I claim if I'm living in Delhi?

To calculate your HRA exemption in Delhi, a metro city, you need to consider the least of three values: your actual HRA received, 50% of your basic salary plus DA, or rent paid minus 10% of your salary. Delhi qualifies for the 50% threshold, which can lead to a higher exemption compared to non-metro cities. If you're unsure how to calculate HRA exemption manually, using an HRA exemption calculator can make the process quick and accurate.

With my high rent, EMI, and bills in Delhi, is life insurance affordable?

Yes. Life insurance plans start at ₹300–500/month. They give your family financial security without hurting your budget. Think of it as essential protection, just like rent or electricity.

With Delhi's high living cost, how much term insurance should I take?

Living in Delhi with its high cost of living, you should consider a term insurance plan that cover at least 15 - 20 times your yearly expenses. So if your yearly spend is ₹6 lakh, aim for ₹1 - 1.2 crore helps replace your income, cover debts, and support your family’s lifestyle and future goals. Use term calculator or Human Life Value methods to calculate your ideal coverage.

Does rising healthcare cost in Delhi affect my health insurance needs?

Yes. Medical costs in Delhi are among the highest in India. A ₹5 lakh cover may fall short. It’s smart to go for at least ₹10 - 15 lakh health insurance to handle private hospital charges, surgeries, or long-term treatments.