Table of Contents
Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka in Southern India, is renowned for its rich culture and heritage, attracting migrants from across the country. With its cosmopolitan culture and lifestyle, the city has become a favourite among people. The IT hub in Bangalore offers abundant job opportunities, making it a magnet for students and job seekers alike. The city boasts excellent opportunities for career growth, top-notch academic institutions, and quality healthcare facilities. Its urban lifestyle, greenery, and affordable cost of living in Bangalore compared to other metropolitan cities make it an ideal place to reside.
According to a recent report, rentals rose by up to 15.7%, driven by robust demand in cities like Bengaluru. ZoloStays offers a range of convenient and affordable housing solutions tailored to the needs of students, professionals, and families alike. With a focus on providing comfortable and well-equipped living spaces.
What is the cost of Living in Bangalore?
According to Numbeo data, the average cost of living in Bangalore is 116,372.3, excluding rent. For a single person, the estimated monthly expenses are 31,843.7, excluding rent.
1. Accommodation Cost in Bangalore.
Accommodation is a significant factor influencing the cost of living in Bangalore, varying based on lifestyle and needs. Rental expenses vary depending on the area and locality. Students and professionals often opt for rental properties close to workplaces and colleges to manage expenses. Students and bachelors can consider PGs in Bangalore, which cost around Rs 7,000-15,000, or 1BHK flats at Rs 12,000-25,000 in areas like BTM, Hebbal, Kengeri, and Nagawara. For families and couples, a decent 2 BHK flat may cost 20-45k, with luxury options near tech parks ranging from Rs 30,000 to Rs 1,00,000. Luxurious areas like Bgmane Tech Park, ITPL, Indira Nagar, Koramangala, and MG Road offer 1 BHK flats from Rs 20,000 to 45,000. The average PG cost in Bangalore ranges from 5000 to 25,000. Choose wisely to save expenses and lead a comfortable life.
Below are categorised by rental price range for BHKs and paying guests
| Apartments Rental in Bangalore | Price (Rs) |
| 1 BHK | ₹12,000 – ₹25,000+ |
| 2 BHK | ₹18,000 – ₹40,000 + |
| 3 BHK | ₹30,000 – ₹70,000 + |
| Paying Guest [PG] | ₹7,000 – ₹35,000 + (depending on single/shared room, food, and facilities) |
Outlined below are the estimated prices for purchasing and renting properties in both affordable and premium neighbourhoods
Here is the updated table. Please note that real estate prices are dynamic and these are current averages/ranges based on 2025 market trends.
| Locality | Category | Average Monthly Rentals (INR) | Price per sq. ft. (INR) (Sale) |
| Kengeri | Affordable/Mid-Range | ₹12,000 – ₹28,000 | ₹6,500 – ₹9,000 |
| Nagavara/Nagwara | Affordable/Mid-Range | ₹15,000 – ₹35,000 | ₹7,500 – ₹11,000 |
| Tavarekere | Affordable | ₹10,000 – ₹22,000 | ₹6,000 – ₹8,000 |
| Ejipura | Mid-Range/Premium | ₹20,000 – ₹50,000+ | ₹9,000 – ₹13,000 |
| Dodda Nekundi/Doddanekundi | Mid-Range | ₹12,000 – ₹28,000 | ₹7,000 – ₹9,500 |
| Basavanagudi | Premium | ₹30,000 – ₹60,000+ | ₹13,000 – ₹20,000+ |
| Indira Nagar | Premium/High-End | ₹35,000 – ₹80,000+ | ₹19,000 – ₹35,000+ |
| Electronic City | Affordable/Mid-Range | ₹12,000 – ₹28,000 | ₹6,500 – ₹9,500 |
| Whitefield | Premium | ₹20,000 – ₹55,000+ | ₹9,000 – ₹15,000+ |
| Hebbal | Premium | ₹25,000 – ₹60,000+ | ₹12,000 – ₹20,000+ |
| Kundalahalli | Premium | ₹18,000 – ₹40,000 | ₹8,500 – ₹13,000 |
| Banaswadi | Mid-Range | ₹15,000 – ₹35,000 | ₹7,000 – ₹10,000 |
| Hennur | Mid-Range | ₹15,000 – ₹35,000 | ₹6,500 – ₹9,000 |
| Yelahanka | Mid-Range/Premium | ₹18,000 – ₹40,000 | ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 |
| R.T. Nagar | Mid-Range | ₹15,000 – ₹32,000 | ₹7,500 – ₹10,500 |
Below are the localities categorised by posh areas, affordable areas, and the best PG options in Bangalore.
| Posh Areas in Bangalore | Affordable Areas in Bangalore | Best PG’s in Bangalore |
| Indira Nagar | Kuundalahalli | Bellandur |
| Marathahalli | Doddanekundi | BTM Layout |
| Malleswaram | Nagwara | SG playa |
| Koramangala | yelahanka | Whitefield |
| Hebbal | banaswadi | Marathahalli |
| Jayanagar | Hennur | Hoodi |
| Banashankari | Hebbal | Electronic City Phase I & II |
| Ulsoor | R.T.Nagar | HSR Layout |
| Basavanagudi | Peenya | Manyata |
| Whitefield | Ejipura | Nagavara |
| HSR | tavarakere | JP Nagar |
| Electronic City | Bilekahalli |
2. Food Cost In Bangalore
Food is one major part that you can’t neglect when it comes to the cost of living. For a family of two, monthly grocery expenses typically range from INR 6,000 to 12,000, reflecting the accessibility and affordability of local produce. However, for bachelors who rely on dining out, expenses can vary significantly. A meal for two in a medium-priced restaurant may cost between INR 700 to 1,500, with higher costs in areas known for their microbreweries and upscale eateries.
Convenience plays a significant role, with doorstep delivery services like Swiggy and Zomato offering options for busy professionals and individuals. Monthly grocery expenses average around Rs 4,000-6,000, making it accessible for all segments of society.
Dining out experiences range from small eateries to premium restaurants, with costs varying from INR 300 to 1,500 for individuals and INR 2,500 to 6,000 for couples seeking premium dining experiences. The nightlife scene, including microbreweries and bars, offers a range of options with expenses averaging between INR 1,000 to 3,000, depending on preferences and frequency.
Checkout: Best Places for South Indian Cuisine in Bangalore
3. Groceries Cost In Bangalore
| Household Type | Monthly Grocery Expenses (INR) |
|---|---|
| Bachelors | 4,000 – 7,000 |
| Couples | 6,000 – 11,000 |
| Families | 10,000 – 18,000 |
Here’s a list of groceries commonly purchased in Bangalore
Note: The price range reflects the variation in brands, quality (e.g., local vs. organic/imported), and store types (local shop vs. supermarket/online delivery).
| Item | New Average Price (INR) | Milk (regular), (1 litre) |
| Water (1.5-litre bottle) | 55.34 | ₹50 – ₹75 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | 48.13 | ₹40 – ₹65 |
| Rice (white), (1kg) | 73.19 | ₹45 – ₹120 |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | 85.74 | ₹80 – ₹160 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | 651.52 | ₹390 – ₹700 |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | 321.32 | ₹280 – ₹400 |
| Buffalo Round (1kg) (Red Meat Equivalent) | 652.55 | ₹250 – ₹450 |
| Apples (1kg) | 220.46 | ₹110 – ₹350 |
| Banana (1kg) | 63.91 | ₹40 – ₹90 |
| Oranges (1kg) | 112.63 | ₹70 – ₹150 |
| Tomato (1kg) | 31.77 | ₹25 – ₹70 |
| Potato (1kg) | 36.75 | ₹30 – ₹50 |
| Onion (1kg) | 36.73 | ₹20 – ₹45 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | 36.12 | ₹35 – ₹100 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5 litre bottle/can) | 29.29 | ₹20 – ₹35 |
| Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) | 1,000.00 | ₹800 – ₹1,500 |
| Imported Beer (0.33 litre bottle) | 183.89 | ₹100 – ₹185 |
| Imported Beer (0.33 litre bottle) | 294.00 | ₹250 – ₹350 |
| Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro) | 350.00 | ₹340 – ₹400 |
4. Transport Cost In Bangalore
Transportation in Bangalore is a crucial aspect of daily life, with a multitude of options available to residents and visitors alike. From public transport to ride-hailing services, understanding the various modes of transportation can help individuals make informed choices based on their needs and budget.
BMTC Bus Services
BMTC operates a vast network of buses covering almost every corner of the city. Here’s a breakdown of the fare structure:
| Ticket Type | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Single Journey (Non-AC) | Distance-based (The base fare increased, resulting in higher fares overall compared to previous structures) |
| Single Journey (AC) | Distance-based (Fares are higher than Non-AC and are subject to GST) |
| Monthly Pass (Non-AC) | ₹1,200 |
| Monthly Pass (AC) | ₹2,0000 |
Bangalore Metro
The Bangalore Metro, also known as Namma Metro, offers a convenient and efficient way to travel across the city. Here are the ticket prices:
| Ticket Type | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Single Journey (Regular) | ₹10 – ₹90 |
| Single Journey (Airport Express) | ₹30 – ₹120 |
| Monthly Pass | ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 |
Ride-Hailing Services
Ride-hailing apps like Ola, Uber, and others provide on-demand transportation services, offering convenience and flexibility to commuters. Here are typical fare ranges:
Based on current market and fare trends (mid-2025) in Bangalore, here is the updated transport cost table in a similar format.
| Mode of Transport | Category | Average Fare/Cost Range (INR) | Key Details |
| Auto Rickshaw (App-Based) | Short Distance (0-5 km) | ₹60 – ₹120 | Government minimum fare is ₹36 for the first 2 km, and ₹18/km thereafter. App-based fares frequently include surge pricing and may exceed government rates. |
| Cab (Mini/Hatchback) | City Ride/ Short Distance | ₹150 – ₹400 | Typical fares for city trips range from ₹300–₹400. Peak hour rates can start with a base fare of $\approx$ ₹75 for 4 km, followed by $\approx$ ₹22/km. |
| Cab (Sedan/Prime) | Outstation / Long Distance | ₹10.50 – ₹18.00 per km | Outstation rates (Round Trip AC) are typically around ₹10.50/km, while One-Way trips can be around ₹18.00/km (plus driver charges). |
| Personal Vehicle (Car) | Monthly Operational Cost | ₹6,000 – ₹13,000+ | This range covers fuel, pro-rated maintenance, and parking. The cost is highly variable based on distance driven and fuel efficiency (Petrol $\approx$ ₹103/L). |
| Public Transport (BMTC Bus/Metro) | Monthly Pass/Total | ₹1,500 – ₹3,500 | Public transport costs are more stable, but included for comparison. A common monthly transport budget for a working professional is ₹2,000 – ₹4,000. |
Owning a Vehicle
While owning a car can offer convenience, it also comes with associated costs such as fuel, maintenance, and parking fees. Here’s a breakdown of monthly expenses:
| Expense Type | Average Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Fuel | ₹4,000 – ₹10,000 |
| Maintenance | ₹2,500 – ₹6,000 |
| Parking | ₹500 – ₹3,500 |
4. Utility Cost
Utilities, which include Electricity, Cable, DTH, Internet, etc., are a part of the cost of living. It depends on your budget and lifestyle. The monthly expenditure on utilities would come to around Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000, depending upon your locality, usage, and many other factors.
| Monthly Utilities | Prices (Rs) |
| Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water) For House | ₹1,700 – ₹5,000 |
| Prepaid Mobile Tariff Local | ₹250 – ₹800 |
| Internet for (Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | ₹600 – ₹1,200 |
5. Entertainment Cost
Well, to make us free from boredom, we need some sort of requirement. Bangalore has a lot of things to keep you entertained and make your weekend merrymaking.
If you are in Bangalore, you can’t just keep yourself away from its nightlife and cosmopolitan culture. It has a lot of options for your entertainment, like its shopping malls, multiplexes, amusement parks, pubs, discos, cafes, etc. There are good malls like Orion Mall, Phoenix City, Mantri Mall, etc. that provide you with a different kind of shopping experience for you all. Not only as a shopping destination, but these malls also provide you with options for restaurants, breweries, bowling, and loads of other fun activities. Places like Lal Bagh, Wonderla, Freedom Park, and Bannerghatta National Park are a must-visit in Bangalore. Moreover, in all these places, the ticket costs are quite cheap. The monthly average expenditure on your entertainment will cost you around Rs 500. On average, the monthly expenditure on entertainment expenses would be around Rs. 1000-1500.
Average Monthly Entertainment Expenses
Residents in Bangalore typically allocate a portion of their budget towards entertainment activities. Here’s a breakdown of average monthly expenses:
| Description | Price Range (INR) |
|---|---|
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | ₹1,000.00 – ₹3,800.00 |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend) | ₹300.00 – ₹800.00 |
| Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat | ₹300.00 – ₹750.00 |
Check out: Best pubs in Bangalore
Cost of Living for Couples in Bangalore
Couples embarking on their journey in Bangalore navigate a landscape of living expenses shaped by housing choices, transportation needs, and shared lifestyle preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the anticipated monthly costs for couples settling in Bangalore.
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Expenditure (Rs) | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | Rs 15,000 – Rs 25,000 | Includes 1 or 2 BHK apartment rent |
| Groceries | Rs 6,000 – Rs 8,000 | Covers essential food items and household supplies |
| Transportation | Rs 2,000 – Rs 5,000 | Includes commuting costs for public transport or fuel for private vehicles |
| Utilities | Rs 2,000 – Rs 3,000 | Covers electricity, water, internet, and other utility bills |
| Entertainment | Rs 6,000 – Rs 9,000 | Includes expenses for dining out, movies, and other leisure activities |
Cost of Living for Families in Bangalore
Families navigating life in Bangalore encounter a spectrum of expenses shaped by housing, commuting, and lifestyle preferences. Including children, the total cost of living in Bangalore could be approximately Rs 40,000-45,000 per month. Here’s an insight into the projected monthly costs for families residing in Bangalore. Taking into account these projections, families can anticipate a comprehensive monthly expenditure in Bangalore, encompassing these critical areas:”
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Expenditure (Rs) | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | Rs 15,000 – Rs 30,000 | Covers rent for family-sized apartments |
| Groceries | Rs 8,000 – Rs 15,000 | Includes food expenses for a family |
| Transportation | Rs 5,000 – Rs 7,000 | Covers commuting costs and vehicle maintenance |
| Utilities | Rs 2,000 – Rs 3,000 | Includes electricity, water, internet, and other utility bills |
| Schooling of Kids | Rs 3,000 – Rs 12,000 | Covers school fees and related expenses for children |
Cost of Living for Students in Bangalore
When we talk about the Average Living Cost in Bangalore for Students, there are different options. For a place to stay without food, it can be between ₹7,000 and ₹15,000. If you want food included, it might cost from ₹10,000 to ₹20,000. Another option is a one-room kitchen, which can range from ₹12,000 to ₹18,000. Living expenses for students in Bangalore are influenced by factors like accommodation, transportation, and personal choices. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated monthly expenditures for students in Bangalore.
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Expenditure (Rs) | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | Rs 7,000 – Rs 13,000 | Covers accommodation expenses such as a hostel or shared apartments |
| Groceries | Rs 3,000 – Rs 5,000 | Includes food expenses for students |
| Transportation | Rs 1,500 – Rs 2,000 | Covers commuting costs for public transport or fuel for private vehicles |
| Utilities | Rs 1,200 – Rs 2,500 | Includes electricity, water, internet, and other utility bills |
Cost of Living for Bachelors in Bangalore
Bachelor life in Bangalore entails a range of financial considerations, including rent, transportation, and personal indulgences. Which would come to around ₹7,000 to ₹13,000 for rent, with additional costs for entertainment, groceries, transport, and utilities, totalling around ₹15,700 to ₹27,500. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the anticipated monthly outlays for bachelors in Bangalore. With these insights, bachelors can anticipate a monthly living expenditure in Bangalore, encompassing these fundamental aspects:
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Expenditure (Rs) | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | Rs 7,000 – Rs 18,000 | Covers accommodation expenses such as PG or shared apartments |
| Groceries | Rs 3,000 – Rs 5,000 | Includes food expenses for individuals |
| Transportation | Rs 1,500 – Rs 2,000 | Covers commuting costs for public transport or fuel for private vehicles |
| Utilities | Rs 1,000 – Rs 2,000 | Includes electricity, water, internet, and other utility bills |
What are the Average Monthly Salaries in Bangalore
The average monthly salary in Bangalore (Bengaluru) varies drastically depending on the industry, job role, and experience level, making a single figure misleading. The overall average annual salary for employees in Bangalore is often cited around ₹28.7 lakhs (translating to about ₹2.39 lakhs per month), but the median salary (the true midpoint) is much lower, typically around ₹20.8 lakhs per year (₹1.73 lakhs per month).
| Role | Experience (Yrs) | CTC (₹ Lakhs) |
| Senior Software Engineer | 6.5 | 90.7 |
| Product Manager II | 8.2 | 73.0 |
| Senior Design Engineer II | 9.6 | 44.8 |
| Senior Machine Learning Engineer | 5.2 | 46.0 |
| Senior Software Engineer | 5.7 | 38.5 |
| Senior Software Engineer | 6.3 | 26.6 |
| Senior Programmer Analyst | 7.5 | 25.1 |
| Developer (L2) | 3.5 | 25.4 |
| Data Analyst – Assistant Manager | 4.6 | 27.6 |
| Senior Software Engineer | 1.9 | 20.4 |
| Software Engineer | 3.5 | 18.7 |
| Assistant Manager | 8.5 | 18.7 |
| Graduate Engineer | 0.3 | 16.3 |
| Software Engineer | 3.6 | 14.5 |
| Senior Engineer – JavaScript | 5.0 | 13.2 |
| Developer | 4.6 | 11.7 |
FAQ’s
A decent lifestyle will cost you around ₹25,000–₹45,000 per month which will include your rent, electricity, and other essential expenses for a single person. For students and bachelors, opting for a PG or a 1 BHK can cost around ₹10,000–₹20,000. For families and couples, you can get a good 2BHK flat in some areas for around ₹23,000–₹45,000, while posh areas can see costs up to ₹60,000
For a decent, affordable living, you can expect to spend. If you rent a 1 BHK flat, you can expect rent around ₹18,000–₹35,000. Remaining expenses (food, travel, miscellaneous) will be around ₹7,000–₹12,000+. Staying in a PG is often more economical; a good PG can cost between ₹6,000–₹18,000 (single sharing) or ₹5,000–₹10,000 (shared room), often including amenities like food and utilities. Overall, a bachelor can manage a decent lifestyle within ₹18,000–₹30,000 or up to ₹35,000 in some areas.
For couples, there are more affordable areas. You can find a 1BHK flat starting around ₹15,000–₹25,000, and with careful budgeting, your total expenses (including food, groceries, and electricity) might be managed in the range of ₹30,000–₹50,000 per month. The final cost heavily depends on your lifestyle choices.
Some of the best schools in Bangalore for primary education are Delhi Public School, St. Lawrence English School, Army School, Silver Oaks International School, Bishop Cotton, Cathedral High, etc.
You can explore various affordable living options for bachelors in Bangalore, particularly around prime education and business hubs. Areas like Doddanekundi, Kundalahalli, Banaswadi, Hennur, Nagwara, Yelahanka, Ejipura, Hebbal, R.T. Nagar, Tavarakere, etc., offer a range of paying guest accommodations, co-living spaces, and rental options suitable for single individuals.
You can find luxury residential areas in Bangalore around prime business districts, shopping centers, and entertainment hubs. Locations like Indira Nagar, Marathahalli, Malleswaram, Hebbal, Jayanagar, Whitefield, HSR Layout, Electronic City, Koramangala, Basavanagudi, etc., offer premium housing options suitable for couples and families seeking a luxurious lifestyle
To live comfortably in Bangalore, a monthly salary ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹70,000 is typically sufficient for a single person. However, the actual amount needed may vary depending on one’s lifestyle, preferences, and the specific location within the city. For a family, a comfortable budget is often higher, around ₹1,00,000 per month or more.
Exploring housing options outside the city center can substantially lower rental costs while still providing convenient access to educational institutions or work hubs via public transportation networks. Monthly bus passes in Bangalore are priced at approximately ₹1,500 and offer a budget-friendly means of commuting within the city.
It primarily hinges on factors like job role, qualifications, and professional experience. As a general guideline, a monthly income ranging between ₹70,000 to ₹1,00,000 can be regarded as satisfactory for a professional lifestyle.
Comparing the overall cost of living between the two cities, Hyderabad emerges as approximately 16 per cent cheaper than Bangalore.
If you’re considering settling in Bangalore with your family, be prepared for a significant increase in living expenses. With children in the picture, the overall monthly cost of living in Bangalore could range from ₹60,000 to ₹1,00,000+ depending on the standard of living and school fees.
Renting a PG in Bangalore can be quite expensive due to the city’s high cost of living. The price for a single room PG in Bangalore typically ranges from as low as 7000 to as high as 30000, on average.
Besides the great weather, lively nightlife, and job prospects, folks are talking on social media about how rents have gone up since last year when more people started coming back to Bangalore after leaving for a while.
Bangalore’s economy is thriving, attracting people from all over India and around the world for job opportunities. This growth makes Bangalore a desirable destination for both locals and expatriates.
The limited road network and inadequate infrastructure contribute to Bangalore’s traffic woes. The city’s roads are often poorly maintained and suffer from backward urban planning practices, exacerbating the congestion issues.
In the IT industry, the translation of languages in Bangalore is significant. For marketing translation, the most sought-after languages are English, Hindi, and Kannada. When it comes to website translation, English and Hindi are the most requested languages, followed by Kannada and Tamil.
Located in the northern part of Bangalore, Jalahalli stands out as one of the greenest and least congested areas in the city, divided primarily into Jalahalli East and Jalahalli West.
The Outer Ring Road (ORR) area of the city faced the most severe congestion, with reports of people being stranded for over five hours. The traffic gridlock occurred the day after the Bengaluru bandh was initiated by the ‘Karnataka Jala Samrakshana Samiti’, a coalition of farmers and Kannada organizations.
Indiranagar, Koramangala, Whitefield, Jayanagar, JP Nagar, and Malleshwaram are among the most expensive neighbourhoods in Bangalore. These areas are renowned for their high-end real estate, diverse lifestyles, and luxurious dining and shopping choices.
The safest areas in Bangalore include Electronic City, Hosur Road, Koramangala, Sarjapur Road, Marathahalli, Panathur Road, Whitefield, HSR Layout, Malleswaram, Kanakapura Road, Yelahanka, Jayanagar, Indiranagar, JP Nagar, and Bannerghatta Road.
