Mumbai's Cost of Living Soars: Ranked Among Top Expensive Cities Globally
Mumbai ranks 136th globally, with Delhi rising to 164th, according to Mercer's 2024 Cost of Living Survey.
Cost Of LivingMercers SurveyMumbaiDelhiExpensive CitiesReal Estate MumbaiJun 17, 2024
Personal care, energy and utility, transportation costs, and housing rentals are all at high levels in Mumbai. In fact, Mumbai has climbed 11 places to become even costlier compared to the previous year, along with Delhi. Globally, Mumbai has risen to 136th, while Delhi has risen to 164th. Other Indian cities have shown mixed trends, with Chennai dropping five spots to 189, Bengaluru dropping six spots to 195, Hyderabad remaining unchanged at 202, Pune jumping eight spots to 205, and Kolkata rising four spots to 207.
In 2023, Mumbai dropped to rank 147 but has rebounded to 136th place this year. The report attributes this increase in Mumbai's cost of living to evolving economic factors. Mumbai is ranked as the 21st most expensive city in Asia for expatriates, while Delhi holds the 30th position among surveyed locations in the region.
When it comes to personal care products, including cosmetics and toiletries, Mumbai is the most expensive, followed by Chennai, while Kolkata is the least expensive. Energy and utility costs are highest in Mumbai, followed by Pune. Transportation costs, including automobiles and running costs, are also highest in Mumbai, followed by Bengaluru.
Housing rentals saw significant increases, with Delhi witnessing a rise of 12-15% for expats, followed by Mumbai with 6-8%, Bengaluru with 3-6%, and Pune, Hyderabad, and Chennai with 2-4%. Basic food items like milk, dairy products, bread, beverages, oils, fruits, and vegetables are most economical in Kolkata, followed by Pune. Alcohol and tobacco items are least expensive in Delhi.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mumbai's global ranking in terms of cost of living?
Mumbai ranks 136th globally in terms of cost of living, according to Mercer's 2024 Cost of Living Survey.
What are the most expensive cities in Asia for expatriates?
Mumbai is ranked as the 21st most expensive city in Asia for expatriates, while Delhi holds the 30th position among surveyed locations in the region.
What are the most economical cities for basic food items in India?
Basic food items like milk, dairy products, bread, beverages, oils, fruits, and vegetables are most economical in Kolkata, followed by Pune.
What is the reason for the increase in Mumbai's cost of living?
The report attributes the increase in Mumbai's cost of living to evolving economic factors.
Which city has witnessed the highest increase in housing rentals for expats?
Delhi has witnessed a rise of 12-15% in housing rentals for expats, followed by Mumbai with 6-8%.
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