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Lucknow, known as the cultural and administrative heart of Uttar Pradesh, exudes a unique charm that captivates visitors and residents alike. Renowned for its rich heritage, Lucknow beckons with its historic landmarks, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Its affordability and esteemed educational institutions make it an attractive destination for students and professionals seeking academic and career opportunities. Moreover, understanding the cost of living in Lucknow is essential for residents to navigate their expenses effectively.
Lucknow offers a relatively modest cost of living compared to other major cities in India. Your budget in Lucknow is influenced by various factors including housing, food, transportation, utilities, and entertainment. By managing these elements judiciously, adapting to life in Lucknow becomes seamless, ensuring financial stability and comfort. According to available data from Numbeo, the average cost of living in Lucknow for a family of four amounts to approximately ₹93,271.4 excluding rent, while for a single person, it stands at 27,610.5. Various accommodation options are available in Lucknow, catering to the diverse needs of students, professionals, and families, ensuring a comfortable lifestyle for residents.
Factors Affecting Cost of Living in Lucknow
Accommodation Cost in Lucknow
Rentals in Lucknow vary significantly depending on factors such as location, size, amenities, and proximity to key facilities. For instance, areas like Gomti Nagar, Indira Nagar, and Hazratganj tend to command higher rents due to their central locations and better infrastructure. On the other hand, areas like Alambagh and Ashiyana Nagar may offer more affordable rental options.
A one-bedroom apartment in prime locations like Gomti Nagar or Hazratganj may range from Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000 per month, while a similar apartment in Alambagh or Ashiyana Nagar may cost around Rs 6,000 to Rs 12,000 per month.
For families looking for larger accommodations, a two-bedroom apartment in areas like Vibhuti Khand or Jankipuram may range from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 per month, whereas in Mahanagar or Aliganj, it could be in the range of Rs 10,000 to Rs 18,000 per month.
| Type of Accommodation | Average Monthly Rent (INR) | Rent Range (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| 1BHK Apartment | Rs 10,000 | Rs 7,000 – Rs 15,000 |
| 2BHK Apartment | Rs 15,500 | Rs 10,000 – Rs 25,000 |
| Residential House | Rs 4,451 | Rs 3,000 – Rs 9,000 |
Transportation Cost
Transportation costs in Lucknow vary based on the mode of travel. Public buses charge around Rs 10 to Rs 50 for short trips. Auto-rickshaws range from Rs 30 to Rs 150, while taxi fares start at Rs 50. Fuel prices are approximately Rs 90 to Rs 100 per litre for petrol and Rs 80 to Rs 90 for diesel. Parking fees range from Rs 20 to Rs 100 per hour. Monthly passes for public transport cost between Rs 500 to Rs 1,500. Overall, transportation expenses in Lucknow are reasonable but can accumulate for regular commuters.
| Transport Item | Price | Range |
|---|---|---|
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | 50.00 ₹ | ₹30.00 – ₹50.00 |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | 1,150.00 ₹ | ₹500.00 – ₹1,500.00 |
| Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) | 60.00 ₹ | ₹50.00 – ₹100.00 |
| Taxi 1 mile (Normal Tariff) | 52.30 ₹ | ₹24.14 – ₹80.47 |
| Taxi 1 hour Waiting (Normal Tariff) | 110.00 ₹ | ₹50.00 – ₹130.00 |
| Petrol | 96.57 | — |
| Diesel | 89.76 | — |
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Food Cost
Food costs in Lucknow vary depending on where you choose to dine and your dietary preferences. In local eateries and street food stalls, you can find budget-friendly meals for as low as Rs 50 to Rs 200 per person. Mid-range restaurants typically charge around Rs 300 to Rs 800 for a meal for two people. Fine dining establishments and upscale restaurants may have higher prices, ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,000 or more for a meal for two. Groceries from local markets are generally affordable, with prices varying based on the items purchased and their quality. On average, a moderate grocery bill for a family of four can range from Rs 3,000 to Rs 6,000 per month. However, these costs can fluctuate based on factors such as lifestyle choices, dietary preferences, and dining habits.
| Restaurants | Price | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | 200.00 ₹ | ₹150.00 – ₹300.00 |
| Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant | 700.00 ₹ | ₹500.00 – ₹3,000.00 |
| McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal) | 275.00 ₹ | ₹250.00 – ₹400.00 |
| Domestic Beer (1 pint draught) | 150.00 ₹ | ₹100.00 – ₹250.00 |
| Imported Beer (12 oz small bottle) | 250.00 ₹ | ₹200.00 – ₹300.00 |
| Cappuccino (regular) | 102.50 ₹ | ₹60.00 – ₹300.00 |
| Coke/Pepsi (12 oz small bottle) | 26.67 ₹ | ₹20.00 – ₹50.00 |
| Water (12 oz small bottle) | 10.78 ₹ | ₹10.00 – ₹20.00 |
Groceries
Chennai, being a metropolitan city, offers a plethora of luxuries and amenities, ensuring a high standard of living for its residents. With numerous supermarkets and local shops scattered across every locality, there are abundant options for grocery and household shopping. Additionally, several home delivery startups such as Bigbasket and Grofers cater to household needs, conveniently delivering items right to your doorstep. On average, monthly expenditures on groceries and household essentials typically range between Rs. 5000 to 6000.
| Item | Price | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Milk (regular), (1 gallon) | 238.24 ₹ | ₹196.84 – ₹264.98 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (1 lb) | 37.45 ₹ | ₹18.14 – ₹72.57 |
| Rice (white), (1 lb) | 24.19 ₹ | ₹18.14 – ₹36.29 |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | 85.62 ₹ | ₹60.00 – ₹114.00 |
| Local Cheese (1 lb) | 141.09 ₹ | ₹108.86 – ₹272.16 |
| Chicken Fillets (1 lb) | 109.43 ₹ | ₹72.57 – ₹158.76 |
| Buffalo Round (1 lb) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat) | 179.93 ₹ | ₹90.72 – ₹317.52 |
| Apples (1 lb) | 68.98 ₹ | ₹45.36 – ₹108.86 |
| Banana (1 lb) | 24.00 ₹ | ₹18.14 – ₹31.75 |
| Oranges (1 lb) | 31.75 ₹ | ₹9.07 – ₹90.72 |
| Tomato (1 lb) | 20.41 ₹ | ₹13.61 – ₹27.22 |
| Potato (1 lb) | 10.86 ₹ | ₹4.54 – ₹13.61 |
| Onion (1 lb) | 13.20 ₹ | ₹9.07 – ₹22.68 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | 29.00 ₹ | ₹10.00 – ₹50.00 |
| Water (1.5 liter bottle) | 28.33 ₹ | ₹20.00 – ₹35.00 |
| Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) | 450.00 ₹ | ₹200.00 – ₹750.00 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle) | 159.01 ₹ | ₹100.00 – ₹250.00 |
| Imported Beer (12 oz small bottle) | 247.00 ₹ | ₹120.00 – ₹400.00 |
| Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro) | 330.00 ₹ | ₹220.00 – ₹400.00 |
THE ABOVE DATA IS FROM NUMBEO
Utility Cost
Utility costs in Lucknow include expenses for electricity, water, heating, cooling, and internet services. On average, the monthly utility bill for a standard 2-bedroom apartment in Lucknow ranges from Rs 3,000 to Rs 8,000, depending on usage and the size of the living space. Electricity bills typically comprise the largest portion of utility costs, followed by water charges. Heating and cooling expenses vary seasonally but contribute to overall utility expenses. Internet services, essential for communication and work, generally cost between Rs 450 to Rs 800 per month for a reliable broadband connection. Overall, utility costs in Lucknow are influenced by factors such as consumption patterns, household size, and the efficiency of appliances.
| Utilities (Monthly) | Price | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 915 sq ft Apartment | 4,485.71 ₹ | 3,000.00-8,500.00 |
| Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data | 286.75 ₹ | 250.00-300.00 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | 583.67 ₹ | 450.00-800.00 |
Shopping Cost
Shopping costs in Lucknow vary depending on what you’re buying and where. Groceries can range from Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000 monthly for a family. Clothing expenses span from budget-friendly options to higher-end brands, with monthly budgets ranging from Rs 3,000 to Rs 10,000. Additional expenses for household items and electronics may also factor into overall shopping costs.
| Clothing And Shoes | Price | Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Pair of Jeans (Levis 501 Or Similar) | 2,516.67 ₹ | 1,500.00-4,500.00 |
| 1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store (Zara, H&M, …) | 2,260.00 ₹ | 1,200.00-5,000.00 |
| 1 Pair of Nike Running Shoes (Mid-Range) | 4,000.00 ₹ | 2,000.00-7,000.00 |
| 1 Pair of Men Leather Business Shoes | 3,272.73 ₹ | 1,500.00-5,000.00 |
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Entertainment cost
Entertainment costs in Lucknow vary based on preferences and activities chosen. Movie tickets range from Rs 200 to Rs 400 per person, dining out costs between Rs 500 to Rs 1,000 for two, and cultural events range from Rs 500 to Rs 2,000 or more per ticket. Sports activities like gym memberships cost around Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,000 monthly. Overall, expenses depend on individual choices and lifestyle.
| Entertainment Activity | Price | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | 2,100.00 ₹ | 1,000.00-3,000.00 |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend) | 1,100.00 ₹ | 400.00-1,500.00 |
| Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat | 400.00 ₹ | 250.00-500.00 |
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Cost of Living for Couples in Lucknow
Couples in Lucknow can expect moderate living expenses, with rent for a 1BHK apartment averaging around Rs 11,000 onwards, along with household expenses, transportation, and entertainment costs tailored to a shared lifestyle.
| Expenses | Average Monthly Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Rent | Rs 11,000 – Rs 20,000 |
| Groceries | Rs 5,000 – Rs 8,000 |
| Transportation | Rs 3,000 – Rs 5,000 |
| Utilities | Rs 2,500 – Rs 4,500 |
| Entertainment | Rs 2,000 – Rs 4,000 |
Cost of Living for Families in Lucknow
Families residing in Lucknow should budget for expenses such as rent for a 2BHK apartment starting from Rs 15,500 onwards, childcare costs, groceries, utilities, and recreational activities, with an average monthly expenditure of around Rs 35,000 considering the city’s living standards.
| Expenses | Average Monthly Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Rent | Rs 15,000 – Rs 30,000 |
| Groceries | Rs 8,000 – Rs 12,000 |
| Transportation | Rs 4,000 – Rs 6,000 |
| Utilities | Rs 3,000 – Rs 6,000 |
| Entertainment | Rs 3,000 – Rs 6,000 |
Cost of Living for Students in Lucknow
Students in Lucknow can manage living expenses within a modest budget, with accommodation options ranging from Rs 4,000 onwards for shared rentals, along with expenses for transportation, groceries, internet connectivity, and occasional leisure activities, requiring prudent financial planning
| Expenses | Average Monthly Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Rent | Rs 4,000 – Rs 8,000 |
| Groceries | Rs 3,000 – Rs 5,000 |
| Transportation | Rs 1,000 – Rs 3,000 |
| Utilities | Rs 1,000 – Rs 2,500 |
| Entertainment | Rs 1,000 – Rs 2,500 |
Cost of Living for Bachelors in Lucknow
Bachelors residing independently in Lucknow should anticipate costs like rent for rental properties starting from Rs 8,000 to Rs 18,000, along with expenses for groceries, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, with monthly budgets ranging to accommodate a single lifestyle.
| Expenses | Average Monthly Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Rent | Rs 6,000 – Rs 12,000 |
| Groceries | Rs 3,000 – Rs 6,000 |
| Transportation | Rs 2,000 – Rs 4,000 |
| Utilities | Rs 1,500 – Rs 3,000 |
| Entertainment | Rs 1,500 – Rs 3,000 |
What are the Average Monthly Salaries in Lucknow
The average Lucknow salary is ₹ 7,74,805 per year or ₹ 373 per hour.
| Job Title | Range | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineer | ₹149k – ₹592k | ₹307,226 |
| Software Engineer | ₹190k – ₹2m | ₹498,269 |
| Accountant | ₹118k – ₹556k | ₹269,169 |
| Pharmacist | ₹122k – ₹802k | ₹239,175 |
| Mechanical Engineer | ₹143k – ₹1m | ₹355,853 |
| Operations Manager | ₹280k – ₹1m | ₹538,770 |
| Graphic Designer | ₹190k – ₹786k | ₹310,096 |
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FAQ’s
Lucknow, compared to many tier-I cities in India, boasts a lower cost of living, making it an attractive destination for professionals, students, and families seeking to settle down. The city offers a wide array of properties available for purchase or rent, with many options for buying houses or flats in Lucknow.”
Lucknow stands out as a top destination in India renowned for its exceptional tourism, education, healthcare, design, and cultural offerings. Residents and professionals in the city benefit from its well-developed infrastructure, earning it the moniker “The Smart City” for being one of the region’s most technologically advanced urban centers.
Gomti Nagar
Vibhuti Khand
Chinhat
Mahanagar
Aliganj
Faizabad Road
Jankipuram
Indira Nagar
Hazratganj
Amar Shaheed Path
To maintain the same standard of living in Jaipur as you would have with 110,000.0₹ in Lucknow, assuming you rent in both cities), you would need around 117,945.5₹ in Jaipur. This calculation uses our Cost of Living Plus Rent Index to compare the cost of living and assumes net earnings.
Lucknow is considered to be one of the more peaceful cities in Uttar Pradesh. Depending on the area where you reside in the city, you may experience longer durations of electricity supply compared to other cities in the state, ranging from 18 to 22 hours, which is up to four times more than what other cities receive.
The salary range for Lower Division Clerk (LDC) positions in Lucknow varies between ₹2.0 Lakhs to ₹3.0 Lakhs, with an average annual salary of ₹2.5 Lakhs.
The safest areas to live in Lucknow are:
Gomti Nagar
Indira Nagar
Alambagh
Amar Shaheed Path
Aliganj
Mahanagar
Ashiyana Colony
LDA Colony
