Frustrated by Skyrocketing Real Estate Prices, Man Considers Houseboat Living
With real estate prices soaring in Indian metro cities, a Reddit user is exploring the idea of living in a houseboat as an affordable alternative.
Real EstateHouseboatAffordabilityIndian CitiesRedditReal EstateJun 27, 2025
“I am unable to afford flats in any of the Indian cities—Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad. I am already aged out, so I won’t be of working age for EMIs,” the Reddit user wrote.
He further asked if it is legal to hire or buy a small boat with a kitchen, a bathroom, and two rooms. Noting that all the aforementioned cities have a few lakes, the man wishes to park the boats on the lakes or near the sea and live there. “I am frustrated with the prices. This is a serious question. Houseboats cost from 15 to 30 lakhs. Moreover, if floods come, I will still be floating,” the post concluded.
The post instantly went viral, showing fellow users voicing their opinions in the comment section. One wrote, “Can’t you just buy a home on the outskirts of a city? It won’t be as fun as a boat, but at least it will be more practical,” while another added, “On a serious note, I’m thinking of buying a caravan and staying inside it; it could be easy to move around the city without the hustle.”
A user asked if the individual has considered buying a home in the rural areas. “Have you considered buying a house in a rural village area? Just an example—a village near the city of Patan, Gujarat, can get an independent house of about 800-900 sq ft with land for about 10-12 lakhs. India would have thousands of this kind of village. You can’t get online deliveries and perks of tier 1/2/3 cities as much if the cost of the house is the only concern. The only thing lacking I can think of is healthcare here, not as good as major cities,” the comment read.
On the contrary, some suggested that one can buy a house in other places within a budget. “You can buy houses in cities like Pune with that budget. If you put together 5-10 more lakhs, you can get yourself a 1BHK here in the city. If you go to the outskirts, then you may also be able to get a 2BHK with a view,” a user wrote.
Going by the comments, the Reddit user’s idea of living in a houseboat appeared creative to some, while others drew out the impracticality of the plan. The discussion highlights the growing frustration many face due to the high cost of living in major cities and the need for innovative housing solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to live in a houseboat in India?
Yes, it is legal to live in a houseboat in India, provided you follow local regulations and obtain the necessary permits. It's important to check with local authorities to ensure compliance.
What are the costs associated with living in a houseboat?
The costs can vary, but generally, a houseboat can range from 15 to 30 lakhs. Additional expenses include maintenance, docking fees, and utilities. It's also important to consider insurance.
Are there any specific cities in India where houseboats are more common?
Cities like Kochi, Alleppey, and certain areas in Kerala are known for their houseboats. However, other cities with lakes or coastal areas can also be considered for houseboat living.
What are the advantages of living in a houseboat?
Some advantages include lower initial costs compared to buying a traditional home, the ability to move locations, and a unique living experience. Houseboats can also be a solution for those frustrated by high real estate prices.
What are the potential drawbacks of living in a houseboat?
Drawbacks can include limited space, the need for regular maintenance, and the lack of certain amenities found in traditional homes. Additionally, living in a houseboat may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with specific lifestyle needs.
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