Mumbai most expensive city, but Pune offers better value of money

The cost of living in India in 2026 ranges from ₹15,000 per month in tier-2 cities to ₹60,000 or more in metros like Mumbai and Bengaluru. Housing remains the biggest expense, especially in major cities. While metros offer higher salaries, cities like Pune and Hyderabad provide better affordability. Overall, India remains significantly cheaper compared to global standards.