How Living in Pune Compares to Other Major Indian Cities

Pune, as of August 2023, is renowned for its relatively affordable cost of living when compared to other major Indian cities such as Mumbai and Bangalore. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of key aspects to help you understand what living in Pune entails.

Room Rents

Room rents in Pune can vary significantly based on the location and type of accommodation. Here’s a general overview: Single Room in Shared Apartment: Costs range from INR 7,000 to 15,000 per month. 1 BHK Apartment: Rent typically falls between INR 15,000 to 30,000 per month. Specific areas, such as Koregaon Park and Kalyani Nagar, may be more expensive. PG (Paid Guest) Accommodation: Costs range from INR 5,000 to 10,000 per month, depending on the amenities and location.

For a single individual, finding affordable housing in the city isn’t always easy, with rent sometimes exceeding modest figures. My personal experience is indicative of the costs you can expect.

Food Costs

Food expenses in Pune can also be a significant part of the monthly budget. Here is a breakdown of different dining options and grocery costs:

Eating Out

Street Food: A meal from street vendors typically costs between INR 30 to 100 per meal. Casual Dining: Expect to pay INR 150 to 500 per meal at casual restaurants. Mid-Range Restaurants: A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant can range from INR 500 to 1,500.

Groceries

Grocery bills can vary depending on personal dietary preferences. For a single person, a monthly grocery budget typically ranges from INR 2,500 to 4,500.

Transportation in Pune is generally feasible and has several options, including public transport and private taxis.

Transportation

Public transport in Pune, such as buses, is relatively accessible and affordable. Here’s what you can expect: Public Transport: Bus fares usually start at INR 10. Auto-rickshaws are commonly used for short distances and typically charge between INR 25 to 50. Monthly Transport Pass: A pass for unlimited bus rides costs around INR 1,000 per month.

With these expenses in mind, a comfortable monthly budget for a single person, including rent, food, utilities, and transportation, can range from INR 25,000 to 40,000, depending on lifestyle choices.

Pune's Appeal Beyond the Cost of Living

Pune offers a pleasant climate, a growing IT sector, and a rich educational landscape, making it a popular destination for students and professionals. Here are some aspects of life in Pune that make it unique:

Nightlife

Pune’s nightlife is vibrant and exciting, offering a variety of options, from trendy clubs to popular night food joints. A standout place is NAL STOP, a renowned nightfood spot that is a local favorite for many Puneri residents.

Surrounding Elegance

The vicinity of Pune is also beautiful, with numerous natural and cultural attractions just a short distance away: Lavasa: Located just 40 kilometers from Pune, this area offers stunning natural landscapes. Lonavala: Situated 60 kilometers away, this hill station destination is a great spot for nature walks and scenic views. Pubbis and Dhabas: These traditional eateries offer a unique and quirky dining experience. Near Babbi Da Dhaba, you can enjoy chai and paneer makhanwala. Tamini Ghat: This historic spot is located around 70 kilometers from Pune and is known for its cultural and historical significance.

The diverse population of Pune adds to its charm. You can experience a range of cultures and cuisines, which can be particularly exciting if you are not from the region.

Community and Relationships

Pune residents are generally friendly, and there is a sense of community. Especially when you encounter local vehicle number plates, you might see a fun change in your interactions.

Multitude of Restaurants

The city is packed with a diverse array of eateries, ranging from traditional to modern cuisine, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences.

Additionally, for those looking for scenic views, some residential buildings in Pune offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, providing a refreshing and beautiful backdrop to daily life.

Overall, while the cost of living in Pune can be significant, the city offers a rich and vibrant living experience. Many, like myself, enjoy the mix of affordability, modernity, and charm that Pune provides.