Hyderabad, the vibrant capital of Telangana, is one of India’s most dynamic cities, known for its rich history, burgeoning IT industry, and mouthwatering cuisine. If you are considering relocating to Hyderabad or simply planning your budget, understanding the cost of living is crucial. In this guide, we break down the various expenses to help you navigate life in this bustling metropolis.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the largest expense for most residents. In Hyderabad, the cost of renting or buying property varies depending on the locality:
Premium Localities: Areas like Jubilee Hills, Banjara Hills, and HITEC City are popular among professionals and expatriates. Rent for a 1BHK apartment in these areas can range from ₹25,000 to ₹50,000 per month.
Mid-range Localities: Areas like Madhapur, Kondapur, and Gachibowli offer a good balance of affordability and convenience, with rents ranging from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 for a 1BHK.
Budget-Friendly Areas: Locations such as Ameerpet, Kukatpally, and Mehdipatnam are more affordable, with 1BHK rents starting from ₹8,000 to ₹15,000 per month.
If you plan to buy property, the average price per square foot is around ₹5,000 to ₹6,500, depending on the area and amenities.
2. Transportation Expenses
Hyderabad offers a range of transportation options, making it easy to get around:
Public Transport: The city’s metro rail system is a fast and economical option, with fares ranging from ₹10 to ₹60 per trip. Buses operated by TSRTC are even cheaper, with fares starting at ₹5.
Auto Rickshaws and Cabs: Autos typically charge ₹13 per kilometer, while app-based cab services like Ola and Uber are slightly costlier but more convenient.
Private Vehicle: If you own a car or bike, fuel costs average around ₹105 per liter (petrol) and ₹93 per liter (diesel) as of 2025.
Monthly transportation expenses can range from ₹1,500 to ₹5,000, depending on your mode of travel.
3. Groceries and Food
Hyderabad offers a mix of affordable groceries and dining options. Monthly grocery expenses for a family of four typically range between ₹5,000 to ₹7,000. For singles, the cost can be as low as ₹3,000 to ₹4,000.
If you love eating out, the city’s culinary scene won’t disappoint:
A meal at an affordable restaurant costs around ₹120 to ₹200.
A three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant will set you back by ₹1,000 to ₹1,800.
Street food options like biryani and kebabs are not only delicious but also budget-friendly, with prices starting at ₹50 to ₹100.
4. Utilities and Internet
Utilities in Hyderabad are reasonably priced:
Electricity, water, and garbage collection for a 1BHK apartment cost between ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 per month, depending on consumption.
A high-speed internet connection costs around ₹500 to ₹1,200 per month.
Total monthly utility costs can range from ₹2,000 to ₹4,000.
5. Healthcare
Hyderabad boasts world-class healthcare facilities at affordable rates:
A consultation with a general physician costs between ₹500 to ₹1,000.
Health insurance premiums vary but typically range from ₹3,000 to ₹8,000 annually for basic plans.
Government hospitals offer free or low-cost healthcare services, while private hospitals provide premium care at higher costs.
6. Education
For families with children, education costs can vary widely based on the type of school:
Government Schools: Offer free or nominal fees.
Private Schools: Tuition fees range from ₹50,000 to ₹1,50,000 per year.
International Schools: Fees can go as high as ₹2,50,000 to ₹4,00,000 annually.
Higher education institutions in Hyderabad, such as Osmania University and IIT Hyderabad, are known for their quality and affordability.
7. Entertainment and Lifestyle
Hyderabad offers a plethora of entertainment options:
Movie tickets cost between ₹150 to ₹300 per person.
Gym memberships range from ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 per month.
Weekend outings or visits to attractions like Ramoji Film City or Golconda Fort cost around ₹500 to ₹1,000 per trip.
If you enjoy shopping, Hyderabad’s local markets and malls cater to all budgets.
8. Miscellaneous Expenses
Other expenses to consider include:
Clothing: Monthly expenses can range from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000, depending on preferences.
Personal Care: Costs for toiletries and grooming average ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 per month.
Conclusion
Hyderabad offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other major Indian cities like Mumbai and Bengaluru. Whether you’re a student, a working professional, or a family, Hyderabad’s diverse options for housing, transportation, and lifestyle make it a desirable place to live. Plan your budget wisely, and you’ll find it easy to thrive in this historic yet modern city.
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