Mumbai—the City of Dreams. A land of bustling opportunity, Bollywood glitz, and high-octane ambition. It’s also one of India’s most expensive cities to live in. Whether you’re moving here as a student, a working professional, a couple, or a family, understanding the cost of living in Mumbai is essential to planning your finances.
This in-depth blog will break down every major expense, covering rent, food, travel, utilities, and more. It will also answer common questions like “Is 1 lakh a good salary in Mumbai?” or “How much salary is needed to live comfortably in Mumbai?” and compare cost of living in Mumbai vs Pune, and even cost of living Pune vs Bangalore. Let’s dive in.
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What Are the Average Living Expenses in Mumbai for a Single Person?
For a single person, the living expenses in Mumbai largely depend on lifestyle and location. A modest lifestyle in a suburban locality may cost around ₹30,000–₹50,000 per month, whereas a more urban lifestyle in areas like Bandra or Lower Parel could easily push that to ₹70,000–₹90,000.
Breakdown:
- Rent: ₹15,000–₹40,000 (based on location and furnishing)
- Food and groceries: ₹5,000–₹12,000
- Travel: ₹2,000–₹4,000
- Utilities and internet: ₹2,000–₹4,000
- Miscellaneous: ₹3,000–₹10,000
So, living expenses in Mumbai for a single person could range from ₹30,000 to ₹90,000 monthly.
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What is the Cost of Living in Mumbai for a Single Person With Rent?
When you include rent, the cost of living in Mumbai for a single person with rent significantly rises, especially in premium areas. Rent can be the largest expense.
In cheaper areas like Mira Road or Navi Mumbai, rent for a 1 BHK apartment may be ₹12,000–₹20,000. In places like Andheri, Powai, or Bandra, expect to shell out anywhere between ₹35,000–₹70,000 for a semi-furnished unit.
Adding utilities, food, transport, and occasional entertainment, the total Mumbai living cost per month for a single person including rent would be approximately ₹45,000–₹1,00,000 depending on location and lifestyle.
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What is the Cost of Living in Mumbai for a Couple?
For couples, the rent is usually shared, but other costs like groceries, dining, and lifestyle habits can double. A mid-range lifestyle for a couple would cost anywhere between ₹60,000 and ₹1,50,000 per month.
Estimated Breakdown:
- Rent: ₹25,000–₹70,000
- Groceries and food: ₹10,000–₹18,000
- Travel and commute: ₹4,000–₹6,000
- Utilities & internet: ₹3,000–₹5,000
- Entertainment & dining: ₹5,000–₹20,000
So, the cost of living in Mumbai for a couple can vary dramatically depending on the locality and lifestyle choices.
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Is 1 Lakh a Good Salary in Mumbai?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions—and the answer depends on your expectations. Yes, ₹1 lakh is a decent salary in Mumbai for a single person or a modest-living couple. You’ll be able to cover rent, daily expenses, occasional outings, and even save a bit if you’re financially disciplined.
However, if you’re aiming for a luxurious lifestyle with a sea-facing flat, frequent fine dining, weekend getaways, or high-end shopping, ₹1 lakh might fall short.
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How Much Salary is Needed to Live Comfortably in Mumbai?
To live comfortably in Mumbai—meaning you can rent a decent flat, eat well, travel, enjoy weekends, and still save—your income should ideally be:
- For singles: ₹75,000–₹1,00,000 per month
- For couples: ₹1.2–₹2 lakh per month
- For families: ₹2–₹3.5 lakh per month
So, how much salary is needed to live comfortably in Mumbai?—It depends on your definition of comfort, but anything below ₹70,000 per month would require very strict budgeting.
How Much Money is Enough to Live a Luxury Life in Mumbai?
For a truly luxurious lifestyle—think penthouse living, private clubs, gourmet dining, and high-end shopping—you’re looking at a monthly expenditure of at least ₹3–₹5 lakh. Add international travel, schooling for kids in top private institutions, and private medical care, and that figure only rises.
So, how much money is enough to live a luxury life in Mumbai?—₹5 lakh per month or more would provide you with an ultra-premium lifestyle in the city.
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What is the Cost of Living in Mumbai vs Pune?
When comparing cost of living in Mumbai vs Pune, Pune is the more affordable city. Rent in Pune is about 30–50% cheaper. Utilities, groceries, and public transport are also less expensive.
For instance, a 1 BHK in Pune costs ₹12,000–₹18,000 in good areas, while in Mumbai, the same can go up to ₹40,000. However, Mumbai offers more job opportunities, especially in finance, media, and corporate sectors.
What About Cost of Living: Pune vs Bangalore?
The cost of living in Pune vs Bangalore is quite similar. Bangalore may have slightly higher rental rates in some tech-driven localities like Whitefield or Indiranagar. On the flip side, Pune has slightly lower overall costs in terms of daily utilities and transport.
So if you’re choosing between the two, lifestyle preference and job market suitability should be the deciding factors.
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What is the Cost of Living in Mumbai for Bachelors?
For bachelors, shared flats or PG accommodations are common choices. Shared rent (in 2 or 3 BHK setups) reduces the cost significantly. In areas like Goregaon, Malad, or Vikhroli, shared accommodation might cost ₹10,000–₹15,000 per person monthly.
Cost of Living in Mumbai for Bachelors generally ranges from ₹25,000 to ₹50,000 per month including rent, food, travel, and some entertainment.
What is the Cost of Living in Mumbai for Students?
Mumbai is home to top colleges and universities, and students often prefer PGs, hostels, or shared flats. Rent for PGs starts from ₹8,000–₹15,000 monthly, with food and laundry included.
Cost of Living in Mumbai for Students can be managed between ₹20,000–₹35,000 monthly if you live in hostels or PG accommodations and avoid lavish spending.
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What Are Some Tips on Reducing the Cost of Living in Mumbai?
- Live in suburbs like Thane, Navi Mumbai, or Mira Road
- Use public transport like local trains and BEST buses instead of cabs
- Cook meals at home instead of eating out
- Choose co-living spaces or shared flats
- Use apps for discounts on groceries and food delivery
These tips on reducing the cost of living in Mumbai can help you manage even in a modest salary range.
What Are the Important Things to Know Before Moving to Mumbai?
- Rent is high, especially in prime areas
- Local trains are the lifeline of the city
- The weather is humid almost all year round
- Networking is everything—build connections
- Lifestyle is fast-paced and competitive
These are some important things to know before moving to Mumbai so you’re prepared financially and mentally.
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Conclusion
Mumbai, with all its chaos and charm, is one of the most vibrant and opportunity-filled cities in India. Whether you’re a bachelor, student, couple, or family, there’s a niche for everyone—but knowing the cost of living in Mumbai beforehand is vital.
From ₹25,000 a month to ₹5 lakh a month, your lifestyle and location dictate everything. If you’re planning to shift, we at Housiey can help you find the perfect residential project within your budget, directly from developers—without pushing your contact to a million brokers.
Also, don’t miss our detailed blog on “New FSI Rules in Maharashtra” for insights on how your home-buying journey may be affected.
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