Thinking of Moving to Pune? Here’s What It Actually Costs to Live Here
Thinking of Moving to Pune? Here's What It Actually Costs to Live Here
Pune has quickly become one of the top choices for young professionals, students, and remote workers across India. With its mix of modern cafes, job opportunities, chill weather, and a slightly slower pace than Mumbai, it’s no surprise people are packing their bags for this growing city. But what’s the real cost of living in Pune—especially if you want a comfortable, bachelor-style life in a good area?
That’s exactly what Finance Talk with Rishab breaks down in one of his recent Instagram videos. If you haven’t come across him yet, Rishab is known for making personal finance simple and easy to digest, especially for Gen Z and millennials trying to figure things out.
Here’s how the monthly budget looks, according to him:
Rent – ₹16,000
If you’re planning to stay in a decent 1BHK apartment in well-connected and upscale neighborhoods like Viman Nagar, Baner, or Kalyani Nagar, a rent of around ₹16,000 is the standard. These localities offer solid infrastructure, security, and access to cafes, gyms, and co-working spaces. While it’s not the cheapest option in the city, you’re paying for convenience, lifestyle, and ease of commute.
Groceries – ₹5,500
Monthly grocery expenses typically come to about ₹5,500. This includes your basic fruits, vegetables, grains, pulses, dairy, and other essentials. Unless you’re shopping at niche organic stores or high-end supermarkets, this cost is fairly uniform across different areas of Pune.
Food Delivery – ₹5,000
Ordering food online has become an integral part of city living. Whether it’s a quick lunch during a hectic workday or comfort food on weekends, most people rely on Swiggy or Zomato several times a week. A monthly estimate of ₹5,000 is realistic for someone who doesn’t cook every meal at home but also doesn’t go overboard with takeout.
Transport – ₹3,000
Even though the metro network in Pune is expanding, most individuals still depend on two-wheelers or ride-hailing apps for daily travel. Between petrol, occasional Uber or Ola rides, and short trips around the city, transport expenses typically amount to around ₹3,000 per month.
Utilities (Electricity, Gas, TV, Wi-Fi) – ₹2,500
Electricity bills, piped gas, Wi-Fi, and any basic TV or OTT subscriptions fall under monthly utilities. For a single person, these usually cost about ₹2,500, though the exact figure can vary slightly depending on usage and time of year.
House Help – ₹2,500
Hiring domestic help for cooking and cleaning is fairly common in Pune, especially among working professionals or students. While finding reliable help might depend on the area, the average cost is around ₹2,500 a month. It’s a practical investment for those who want to save time and effort.
Subscriptions – ₹1,500
Streaming services and digital subscriptions—like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Spotify, and YouTube Premium—can easily add up. A monthly allocation of ₹1,500 is reasonable if you’re subscribed to two or more platforms regularly.
Shopping and Leisure – ₹5,000
Weekend outings, dining out, casual shopping, or the occasional unplanned expense typically fall under this category. Pune has a vibrant social and cultural scene, and budgeting around ₹5,000 a month allows for moderate entertainment without going overboard.
Total Estimated Monthly Expenses: ₹40,000 – ₹42,000
If you’re living a comfortable single lifestyle in Pune, this is a realistic monthly budget to expect. While you can certainly cut corners or spend more depending on your preferences, this estimate strikes a good balance between affordability and quality of life in one of India’s most dynamic cities.
So, what should your salary be?
According to Rishab, to comfortably manage this lifestyle—and still be able to save a decent amount—your monthly income should ideally be at least ₹80,000. That way, you’re not just living paycheck to paycheck, and you can handle emergencies or savings without stress.
Living in Pune isn’t exactly cheap anymore, but it’s still more affordable than cities like Mumbai or Bangalore—if you plan your expenses smartly. And with so many people making the move for better career and life opportunities, it helps to go in with your eyes open.
