Kochi, also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, is a vibrant city located in the southern state of Kerala, India. With its rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful coastal charm, Kochi has become a popular destination for individuals and families looking to relocate. However, like any other city, it is essential to understand the cost of living and potential challenges that one may face when moving to Kochi. In this article, we will provide a breakdown of the cost of living for bachelors, couples, and families in Kochi in 2024, along with tips on overcoming common relocation challenges.

Cost of living in Kochi for single person

Kochi offers numerous opportunities for young professionals and bachelors looking to explore career growth and experience a vibrant lifestyle. Whether you’re working in the IT sector or pursuing a career in the thriving tourism industry, Kochi has something to offer everyone. Here are some key aspects to consider when it comes to the cost of living in Kochi for single person:

1. Housing

Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the posh areas of Kadavanthra or Panampilly Nagar can provide a comfortable living experience. These neighborhoods offer easy access to amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues. However, keep in mind that such prime locations come with a higher price tag. You can expect monthly rents to range between INR 15,000 and INR 25,000. If you’re looking for more budget-friendly options, areas like Edappally or Vyttila offer decent accommodations with rents ranging between INR 8,000 and INR 15,000. Sharing accommodations or opting for co-living spaces in areas like Kakkanad or Thripunithura can significantly reduce your housing costs while fostering a sense of community.

2. Transportation

Kochi has an efficient and well-connected public transportation system. Buses, auto-rickshaws, and ride-hailing services like Uber and Ola are readily available, making it convenient for bachelors to navigate the city. Monthly transportation expenses may range from INR 1,500 to INR 2,500, depending on the distance of your daily commute and your preferred mode of transport. Additionally, Kochi Metro provides a reliable and affordable means of transportation, especially for those living in areas along its route.

3. Food and Entertainment

Kochi is a paradise for food lovers, with a wide range of culinary delights to explore. Eating out at local restaurants and savoring street food stalls is not only a treat for your taste buds but also an affordable option. Popular food joints like Dhe Puttu and Pai Dosa offer delicious meals ranging from INR 100 to INR 300. Additionally, Kochi’s vibrant nightlife provides plenty of entertainment options for bachelors. Whether you want to unwind at trendy pubs like The High Place or have a relaxed evening at popular cafes like Kashi Art Cafe, you can expect to spend around INR 2,000 to INR 5,000 per month on food and entertainment, depending on your preferences and social activities.

Cost of living for couples

For couples planning to start a life together in Kochi, the city offers a perfect blend of work-life balance and a nurturing environment. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to the cost of living in Kochi as a couple:

1. Housing

Renting a one-bedroom apartment in a desirable neighborhood can provide a comfortable living space for couples. Areas like Marine Drive and Fort Kochi offer a charming coastal lifestyle, with easy access to shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational spots. Expect monthly rents to range between INR 18,000 and INR 30,000 for such prime locations. Alternatively, couples can consider two-bedroom apartments or shared accommodations in areas like Palarivattom or Elamakkara to reduce housing costs while enjoying decent amenities and proximity to essential services.

2. Transportation

As a couple, you may find it convenient to own a two-wheeler or utilize ride-hailing services like Uber or Ola for your daily commute and travel needs. Kochi’s traffic can sometimes be congested, and having your own vehicle can provide flexibility and ease of transportation. Budget around INR 2,000 to INR 3,000 per month for transportation expenses, including fuel and maintenance costs.

3. Utilities

When it comes to utilities, including electricity, water, and internet, couples can expect monthly expenses to average around INR 2,000 to INR 4,000, depending on their usage patterns. Opting for energy-efficient appliances and practicing mindful consumption can help keep these costs within budget.

Cost of living for families

Kochi provides a welcoming environment for families seeking a comfortable and enriching lifestyle. The city’s excellent infrastructure, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities make it an ideal place to raise a family. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to the cost of living as a family:

1. Housing

Renting a spacious two or three-bedroom apartment in a family-friendly area can provide ample space for your loved ones. Neighborhoods like Kakkanad and Thrikkakara offer a peaceful and safe environment for families, along with proximity to schools, parks, and recreational facilities. Monthly rents for such accommodations may range between INR 25,000 and INR 40,000.

Families looking for more budget-friendly options can explore nearby suburban areas like Aluva or Kalamassery, where housing costs tend to be more affordable while still offering a decent quality of life.

2. Education and Childcare

Kochi boasts a range of educational institutions, both public and private, that cater to different academic needs and preferences. Reputable schools like Choice School, Rajagiri Public School, and Toc-H Public School provide quality education at various grade levels. Depending on the school and grade level, monthly tuition fees can range from INR 10,000 to INR 30,000. Additionally, families with young children may need to consider daycare and preschool expenses, which can amount to around INR 5,000 to INR 10,000 per month.

3. Healthcare

Kochi is equipped with a well-developed healthcare system, offering a wide range of hospitals and clinics to cater to the medical needs of families. Renowned medical facilities like Aster Medcity, Lakeshore Hospital, and Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences ensure access to quality healthcare services. Budgeting for medical expenses, including health insurance, prescriptions, and routine check-ups, is essential for families, with average monthly costs ranging from INR 3,000 to INR 7,000.

Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, is a captivating blend of rich history and modern amenities. As we delve into the cost of living in Lucknow in 2024, you’ll discover that this city offers a wonderful balance of affordability and quality of life for bachelors, students, and families alike. From educational institutions and popular eateries to healthcare facilities and recreational centers, Lucknow has something to offer everyone.

Cost of living for bachelor in Lucknow

1. Accommodation

• Rental prices for 1BHK apartments in popular areas like Gomti Nagar, Aliganj, and Indira Nagar range from ₹8,000 to ₹18,000 per month.
• Sharing accommodations with roommates can significantly reduce living costs, with shared apartments available for as low as ₹4,000 per month.
• Consider smaller studio apartments or paying guest (PG) accommodations for more affordable options.

2. Food and Dining

• Budget for around ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 per month for food expenses, depending on your eating habits and whether you prefer cooking at home or dining out.
• Affordable street food stalls and local eateries offer delicious and economical options, with meals starting from ₹50 to ₹150 per person.
• Cooking at home using local ingredients can be a cost-effective way to manage food expenses.

3. Transportation

• Lucknow has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses and auto-rickshaws, with fares ranging from ₹10 to ₹50, depending on the distance traveled.
• Owning a bicycle or using ride-sharing services can be additional cost-saving options for short distances.
• Consider using Lucknow Metro for convenient and affordable transportation across the city.

4. Utilities

• Monthly electricity costs for a 1BHK apartment typically range from ₹500 to ₹1,000, depending on electricity consumption and the type of housing complex.
• Water bills for bachelors generally range from ₹200 to ₹400 per month.
• Internet plans start from around ₹500 per month, depending on the speed and data limit you choose.

5. Entertainment and Recreation

• Lucknow offers various parks, gardens, and historical sites that can be enjoyed free of cost or at a nominal entry fee.
• Budget for around ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 per month for leisure activities, including occasional outings, movie tickets, or cultural events.
• Take advantage of public libraries, local clubs, and community centers for affordable recreational activities.

Total Monthly Cost: ₹12,000 to ₹25,000

Cost of living in Lucknow for students

1. Accommodation

• Many educational institutions in Lucknow provide hostel facilities for students, which can range from ₹5,000 to ₹15,000 per month, depending on the amenities and location.
• Alternatively, students can opt for shared accommodations or PG accommodations near their respective colleges or universities for more affordable living options.
• Consider budgeting for security deposits and other one-time expenses when calculating the total cost of living.

2. Food and Dining

• Budget for around ₹2,500 to ₹4,000 per month for food expenses, depending on your dietary preferences and eating habits.
• College canteens and nearby eateries often offer pocket-friendly meals starting from ₹50 to ₹150 per person.
• Cooking simple meals at home can help students save money on food expenses.

3. Transportation

• Lucknow’s public transportation system, including buses and auto-rickshaws, offers affordable options for students. Fares typically range from ₹10 to ₹50, depending on the distance traveled.
• Many colleges and universities provide shuttle services for students, reducing transportation costs.
• Consider walking or cycling for short distances to save on transportation expenses.

4. Utilities

• Monthly electricity costs for students living in hostels or shared accommodations generally range from ₹300 to ₹800, depending on usage and the type of facility.
• Water bills for students typically range from ₹100 to ₹300 per month.
• Affordable internet plans starting from ₹500 per month are available for students’ connectivity needs.

5. Entertainment and Recreation

• Lucknow offers several student-friendly hangout spots, such as parks, cafes, and affordable movie theaters, where students can enjoy leisure activities.
• Take advantage of student discounts and special offers available at various recreational venues, cultural events, and exhibitions.
• Joining student clubs and organizations can provide access to additional affordable entertainment options.

Total Monthly Cost: ₹8,000 to ₹18,000

Cost of living in Lucknow for couples

1. Accommodation

• Rental prices for 1BHK or 2BHK apartments in popular areas like Gomti Nagar, Aliganj, and Indira Nagar range from ₹8,000 to ₹25,000 per month, depending on the size, location, and amenities.
• Consider budgeting for additional expenses such as security deposits, maintenance fees, and utility setup costs.
• Look for apartments with shared amenities like gymnasiums and swimming pools to save on individual membership fees.

2. Food and Dining

• Budget for around ₹4,000 to ₹10,000 per month for food expenses, depending on your eating habits, frequency of dining out, and choice of restaurants.
• Enjoy Lucknow’s famous Awadhi cuisine at various local eateries and restaurants, which offer a range of budget-friendly and upscale options.
• Cooking at home and shopping at local markets can be cost-effective ways to manage food expenses.

3. Transportation

• Lucknow’s public transportation system, including buses and auto-rickshaws, provides affordable commuting options for couples. Fares typically range from ₹10 to ₹50, depending on the distance traveled.
• Owning a two-wheeler or car can provide convenience and flexibility, but it’s important to consider associated costs such as fuel, maintenance, insurance, and parking fees.
• Consider carpooling or ride-sharing services to save on transportation expenses.

4. Utilities

• Monthly electricity costs for a couple living in a 1BHK or 2BHK apartment generally range from ₹800 to ₹2,000, depending on usage and the type of housing complex.
• Water bills for couples typically range from ₹300 to ₹600 per month.
• Internet plans starting from ₹500 per month are available for reliable connectivity.

5. Entertainment and Recreation

• Lucknow offers a variety of entertainment options for couples, including parks, historical sites, shopping malls, and theaters.
• Budget for around ₹2,000 to ₹6,000 per month for leisure activities, which can include dining out, movie outings, occasional weekend getaways, or attending cultural events.
• Take advantage of local discounts, happy hours, and couple-specific offers available at various recreational venues and restaurants.

Total Monthly Cost: ₹20,000 to ₹45,000

Cost of living in Lucknow for families

1. Accommodation

• Rental prices for 2BHK or 3BHK apartments in areas suitable for families like Gomti Nagar, Aliganj, and Indira Nagar range from ₹12,000 to ₹35,000 per month, depending on the size, location, and amenities.
• Consider budgeting for additional expenses such as security deposits, maintenance fees, and utility setup costs.
• Look for apartments or gated communities with child-friendly facilities and proximity to schools, parks, and shopping centers.

2. Food and Dining

• Budget for around ₹8,000 to ₹15,000 per month for food expenses, depending on the size of the family, dietary preferences, and eating habits.
• Lucknow offers a wide range of dining options suitable for families, including affordable local eateries, family-friendly restaurants, and mid-range dining establishments.
• Cooking at home, planning meals, and shopping at local markets can help manage food expenses effectively.

3. Transportation

• Lucknow’s public transportation system, including buses and auto-rickshaws, provides affordable commuting options for families. Fares typically range from ₹10 to ₹50, depending on the distance traveled.
• Owning a two-wheeler or car can provide convenience and flexibility for family transportation needs. Consider associated costs such as fuel, maintenance, insurance, and parking fees.
• Consider carpooling or using ride-sharing services to save on transportation expenses.

4. Utilities

• Monthly electricity costs for a family living in a 2BHK or 3BHK apartment generally range from ₹1,500 to ₹3,500, depending on usage and the type of housing complex.
• Water bills for families typically range from ₹500 to ₹1,000 per month.
• Internet plans starting from ₹500 per month are available for reliable connectivity.

5. Education

• Budget for education expenses, including school fees, books, uniforms, and extracurricular activities, depending on the age of your children and the type of school they attend.
• Research schools in your desired locality and consider associated costs such as admission fees and transportation expenses.
• Lucknow offers a variety of educational institutions, both private and public, catering to different curricula and budgetary considerations.

6. Entertainment and Recreation

• Lucknow provides various entertainment options for families, including parks, historical sites, shopping malls, and recreational centers.
• Budget for around ₹4,000 to ₹10,000 per month for leisure activities, which can include family outings, movie trips, occasional vacations, or participating in cultural events.
• Take advantage of family discounts and special offers available at various recreational venues, amusement parks, and museums.

Total Monthly Cost: ₹30,000 to ₹70,000

Visitor management is one of the many features offered by Mygate, designed to strengthen security at the gate while keeping the experience smooth for residents and guests. Every entry and exit is digitally recorded, ensuring transparency and control, while guests enjoy a quick and hassle-free check-in process.

With the help of Mygate’s Visitor Management feature, you can easily manage visitor access or pre-approve entries, to ensure enhanced security and convenience for everyone.

You can manage visitor entry through one of the two ways:

1. The Visitor Notification

This is a smooth one-step process that will notify you when there is a visitor requesting entry into your home.

• Once the visitor shares their details with the guard, you will receive a notification about the same.
• You can choose to either approve or deny their entry.

2. Pre-approval

When you create a pre-approval, you can validate a visitor’s entry in advance, to avoid last-minute hassles. This feature enables residents to provide visitor details such as name, contact information, and expected duration of the visit to security guards via the Mygate app.

To pre-approve visitors

• Click on the ‘Pre-Approve’ icon on the home screen.
• Click on ‘Guest’ and choose between ‘Once’ and ‘Frequently’.
• Fill in the relevant details and click on the ‘Select Guest’ option.
• Choose the guest(s) from your contact list or add the details manually and click on the ‘Add Guest’ option.
• Customise the invite with the theme of the event you’re hosting, add a note and share it with your guests.

Your guests can click on the link, validate their number and receive the pre-approval passcode.

Gone are the days of unexpected knocks on the door. With Mygate’s Visitor Management feature, it is easier than ever to effectively secure your home and get a headstart on guests dropping by!

Shopping online is an inevitable part of the day and age. Be it for the bare essentials, an impulsive splurge, or a calculated big spend, shopping online has become increasingly convenient, and with Mygate’s delivery management system, the receiving of your parcels is also made seamless.

Simultaneously, when these processes are executed correctly, they ensure a secure environment within the society, and this will also effectively cut down the wait time for delivery executives.

Mygate offers you two ways to manage deliveries:

1. The Entry Notification

The simple entry notification is a one-step process to manage your deliveries.

• Once the delivery executive shares their details with the guard, you will receive a notification about the same.
• You can choose to either approve or reject their entry. Alternatively, you can choose “Leave at Gate”- which will notify the security guard to collect the parcel on your behalf.

2. Pre-Approve Feature

You can also choose to pre-approve an expected delivery. Pre-approving deliveries can prove to be most effective when you’re not available to collect the parcel, or attend to the entry notification.

To Pre-Approve Deliveries

• Select the “Pre-Approve” option on the home screen
• Select the “Delivery” option.
• Provide the necessary details, such as delivery date and time
• Confirm your pre-approval request
• Once Pre-approved, the delivery person can deliver the package without hassle

Mygate’s delivery management system with the Leave at Gate and the Pre-Approval features enhances security and elevates the delivery experience. Whether you’re home or away, you can now be assured that your parcels are safely.

While the Mygate network can help you find reliable domestic workers, the various features are designed, keeping in mind the many aspects of effectively managing a household. In this regard, keeping track of the daily staff attendance can prove to be important for both logistical and security reasons.

The Daily help section offers the following features:

1. Staff attendance

This feature notifies you when the staff arrives and leaves your home. It also provides you with a record of attendance logs.

To access your daily help attendance:

• On the homescreen, select the staff (maid or cook)
• Click on their profile
• Select attendance

2. Gate pass

In case your maid is carrying any item provided by residents, you can issue a GatePass when they are checked-in, in order to avoid unnecessary disputes at the society gate.

To issue gate pass for your daily help:

• On the homescreen, select the staff (maid or cook)
• Click on their profile
• Select gate pass icon
• Create gate pass

3. Track payments

You can pay the staff salary via the Mygate app and ensure you have a record of all Payments made to your staff.

To track staff payments:

• Go to homescreen
• Select the staff (Maid or cook)
• Click on their profile
• Select record payment and add the required details.

4. Reviews

See reviews from other residents & find quality daily help for your home.

To rate or check daily help reviews:

• Go to homescreen
• Select the staff (Maid or cook)
• Click on their profile select rate now

Managing daily staff attendance is made simple and stress-free with Mygate. With regular updates and records of attendance logs, you can ensure a smooth and efficient workflow for your household. Get started with Mygate today!

From rent to maintenance to bills for amenities and so much more, keeping a log on the several forms of payments can be quite cumbersome. However, with Mygate Payments, all sorts of society-related payments are brought under one roof, and this makes it easier to track society finances for both residents and the RWA.

Why use Mygate payments?

• Multiple payment modes
• Pay securely via credit cards, debit cards, UPI or e-wallets
• Access transaction history
• Easily download receipts of paid dues and past maintenance bills
• Receive updates on the current status of your payment with Mygate support

How to make payments

1. Society Dues:

• Click on the “Payments” icon on the home screen.
• Click on “Society Dues”.
• Click on “Pay Now” on the invoice raised.
• Select the mode of transaction.
• Click on “Checkout”.
• Enter the details and proceed to make the payment.

2. Pay Rent:

• Click on the “Payments” icon on the home screen.
• Click on “Rent Pay”.
• Check the “Terms and Conditions” box.
• Fill in your landlord’s name, property address, and their bank account details.
• Add remarks, and enter the amount to be paid. You can check “Payment reminder” for a monthly reminder and edit the date.
• Click on “Proceed to Payment”.
• Select the payment mode and click on “Pay now”.

3. Utility Payments:

• Click on the “Payments” icon on the home screen.
• Click on “Utility Payments”.
• Select the payment you want to make- mobile, DTH, Electricity, Gas, or others, and proceed.
• Login to your Mobikwik wallet.
• Proceed to make the payment.

Transaction History for all the Utility Payments is available in the top right corner.

Mygate’s payment feature provides a hassle-free way to clear all your society related payments and manage your home bills. Say goodbye to the complexities of payment management and enjoy a seamless experience with Mygate!