Is Bhubaneswar Cheap or Expensive?
Bhubaneswar

Is Bhubaneswar Cheap or Expensive?

Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, offers a balanced cost of living that caters to a wide range of budgets. Whether Bhubaneswar is cheap or expensive, largely depends on various factors such as lifestyle, accommodation preferences, and personal spending habits. Here’s a breakdown of the cost of living in Bhubaneswar:

Table of Contents

Housing

Affordable Options:

Rent: For those looking for budget-friendly options, areas like Saheed Nagar, Rasulgarh, and Unit-9 offer affordable housing. Rent for a 1BHK apartment can range from ₹6,000 to ₹12,000 per month.

Buying: The cost of purchasing a home in these areas is also relatively lower compared to more upscale neighborhoods.

Expensive Options:

Rent: Premium areas like Jaydev Vihar, Chandrasekharpur, and IRC Village have higher rent prices. A 2BHK apartment in these localities can cost between ₹15,000 to ₹30,000 per month.

Buying: Buying property in these areas is more expensive due to the upscale amenities and strategic location.

Food

Affordable Options:

Street Food and Local Eateries: Bhubaneswar is known for its delicious and affordable street food. Popular local eateries offer meals at very reasonable prices. A meal at a local eatery can cost around ₹50 to ₹150.

Groceries: Local markets and small grocery stores provide affordable fresh produce and daily essentials.

Expensive Options:

Restaurants and Cafes: Dining at mid-range to high-end restaurants and cafes can be more expensive. A meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around ₹300 to ₹800 per person.

Imported Goods: Purchasing imported food items and groceries from high-end supermarkets will be costlier.

Transportation

Affordable Options:

Public Transport: Bhubaneswar has an extensive network of buses and auto-rickshaws that provide affordable transportation. A bus ride within the city usually costs between ₹5 to ₹20.

Cycling and Walking: The city’s relatively small size and flat terrain make cycling and walking viable and cost-effective options.

Expensive Options:

Private Vehicles: Owning and maintaining a private vehicle, including fuel and parking fees, can be more expensive.

Cab Services: Using cab services like Ola and Uber frequently can add up to a higher transportation cost.

Utilities and Services

Affordable Options:

Basic Utilities: The cost of basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for a standard apartment ranges from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per month.

Internet and Mobile: Affordable internet and mobile plans are available, with monthly costs around ₹500 to ₹1,000.

Expensive Options:

Premium Services: Opting for higher-end internet packages, satellite TV, and other premium services will increase monthly expenses.

Education and Healthcare

Affordable Options:

Public Schools and Colleges: Public educational institutions offer quality education at low fees.

Government Hospitals: Government hospitals provide healthcare services at minimal costs.

Expensive Options:

Private Schools and Colleges: Private educational institutions have higher fees, ranging significantly based on the school’s reputation and facilities.

Private Hospitals: Private healthcare facilities offer advanced services at higher costs.

Entertainment and Leisure

Affordable Options:

Parks and Museums: Many parks, temples, and museums in Bhubaneswar have low or no entry fees, providing affordable leisure options.

Local Cinema Halls: Watching movies in local cinema halls is inexpensive, with tickets costing around ₹100 to ₹300.

Expensive Options:

Malls and High-End Clubs: Shopping at malls, dining at upscale restaurants, and visiting high-end clubs can be more expensive.

Overall, Bhubaneswar offers a mix of affordability and luxury, catering to diverse financial situations. The city provides numerous opportunities to live economically, but it also has plenty of options for those who prefer a more lavish lifestyle. Your cost of living in Bhubaneswar will largely depend on your personal choices and spending habits.