Cost of living in Pune

As Pune's economy continues to grow, largely thanks to its healthy IT and manufacturing sectors, the cost of living in the city also rises.

On a global scale, compared with other expat destinations, life in Pune is affordable, as indicated by its ranking of 213th out of 227 cities across the globe assessed for Mercer's Cost of Living Survey for 2023.

In the context of India, Pune is fairly pricey, although it remains significantly cheaper than the megacities of Mumbai (147th), New Delhi (169th), Chennai (184th) and Bengaluru (189th). Meanwhile, Hyderabad (202nd) and Kolkata (211th) have a cost of living similar to Pune.

Cost of accommodation in Pune

Most expats spend the most significant proportion of their salary on accommodation, usually about a third. Several factors will determine how much a person pays in rent, such as the type of accommodation, its size and location.

Prices can vary widely in different areas. City-centre properties are pricier than suburban homes, but the latter will have more space to offer compared to the sometimes-cramped apartments in the city centre.

Cost of transport in Pune

Most expats drive in Pune, whether by car or scooter, as public transport leaves much to be desired. Rental cars can be arranged at a fairly reasonable price, or newcomers might look to purchase from fellow expats leaving the city. Those who don't want to brave the traffic themselves can hire a driver, a perk that companies sometimes offer to high-level executives moving to the city for work. Taxis are another option, though this can become expensive over time.

Cost of food and groceries in Pune

Pune offers a wide variety of choices when it comes to grocery shopping and eating out, ranging from budget to high-end options. Buying local, in-season produce will always be cheaper than buying imported or out-of-season items. Similarly, local restaurants generally cost less than restaurants offering non-Indian fare.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Pune

There's no shortage of entertainment options in Pune, whether one is interested in films, music, theatre, shopping or exploring the vibrant nightlife. Pune's culinary scene is similarly diverse, with a wide range of eateries catering to various budgets.

Street food is popular and affordable, perfect for those keen to try local delicacies. Mid-range restaurants offering local and international fare are plentiful, with prices usually moderate. High-end restaurants and luxury dining experiences can be costly but provide gourmet dishes and excellent service. It's also worth noting that alcohol, especially imported brands, can significantly increase the dining bill.

Cost of education in Pune

Most expats relocating to Pune with children will opt to send them either to an international school in the city or a boarding school back home. Both of these are expensive options that come with high tuition fees, not to mention extra costs such as textbooks, uniforms, school lunches and bus fare.

One alternative that parents might consider is homeschooling, which is much cheaper. While there aren't government regulations supporting homeschooling in India, authorities won't interfere as long as a child receives some form of education.

Cost of healthcare in Pune

The cost of healthcare in Pune, as with many Indian cities, can be quite reasonable compared to Western standards, but it can vary based on the type and level of care required. Public hospitals offer free or low-cost medical services but may lack the facilities and staff-to-patient ratio of private clinics. On the other hand, private hospitals offer more extensive services, English-speaking staff and better facilities, but at a higher cost.

Most expats opt for private healthcare and often secure a comprehensive health insurance plan either privately or through their employer. Insurance can offset costs of regular doctor visits, prescription medications, emergency treatments, and hospital stays. It is also worth noting that the cost of dental care in Pune is generally much less expensive than in many Western countries.