Cost of living and prices in Kolkata, prices of food, rent, shopping, etc. 🇮🇳
Updated Jul 2023

Kolkata is known for its diverse cuisine, and it’s no wonder that the city has a plethora of dining options. From street food to fine dining, Kolkata has something to offer for everyone. Visitors must try the local specialties such as spicy fish curry, puchka (small, hollow, crispy puris stuffed with spiced mashed potatoes and a tangy tamarind water), and rosogolla (sweet cottage cheese balls soaked in syrup). The city is also famous for its Chinese food, which has been adapted to suit the Indian palate. The Park Street area is a popular spot for fine dining, while the street food scene is quite popular in places like New Market and Chowringhee.

For those looking for an immersive dining experience, Kolkata has several themed restaurants that are worth checking out. Mocambo is an iconic retro-themed restaurant that serves continental food in a charming setting. Peter Cat, another popular restaurant, is known for its steaks and continental cuisine. Oxford Bookstore's in-house cafe, Cha Bar, is ideal for those who want to enjoy a book while sipping on tea and snacking on light bites. Overall, Kolkata’s food scene is vibrant and varied, making it a foodie’s paradise.

Kolkata, India is a bustling city with a diverse range of market prices depending on the products and services you're looking for. The city's markets offer an incredible array of goods from traditional textiles to modern electronics. You will find everything from luxury items to affordable goods in the various retailers, street markets and shopping malls throughout the city. Whether you're haggling with a local vendor or buying from a high-end boutique, you're sure to find competitive prices in Kolkata.

While Kolkata may not be the cheapest market in India, there's no shortage of bargains to be found. From locally produced handicrafts to fresh produce from the nearby countryside, there's something for every budget and taste. The city has a unique blend of ancient and modern cultures, with bustling street markets and ultramodern malls sitting side-by-side. The markets offer an unparalleled shopping experience, and you're sure to find items that aren't available anywhere else in the world. So whether you're an experienced shopper or just looking for something special to take home, Kolkata's markets are a must-visit destination.

Kolkata, also known as the "City of Joy," offers a variety of transportation options for visitors. One of the most popular and affordable options is the yellow taxis, which can be found all over the city. These taxis are metered, making it easy to get around and know the cost upfront. Additionally, the city has a vast network of buses that are an economical way to travel within the city. However, they can be crowded and uncomfortable during peak times.

If you're looking for a more unique experience, the tram system in Kolkata is an excellent option. The city is the only one in India that still operates trams, making it a nostalgic and enjoyable way to travel. These trams run on several routes, and the fare is reasonable, giving visitors a chance to explore the city at a leisurely pace. Another exciting transportation option is the ferry service that runs along the Hooghly River. The ferries connect Kolkata with its suburbs and offer a unique opportunity to see the city's landmarks from a different perspective.

If you're planning a trip to Kolkata, it's important to consider the cost of utilities. Electricity, water, and gas are among the most essential expenses, and they can add up quickly. While prices vary depending on the neighborhood and type of accommodation, you can expect to pay more if you're staying in a highly populated area or if you're using more energy than average.

One thing to keep in mind is that utilities in Kolkata may not be as reliable as you're used to back home. Power cuts, water shortages, and gas supply disruptions are not uncommon, especially during periods of high demand or inclement weather. Being prepared with backup sources of light, water, and heat can make all the difference in ensuring a comfortable and affordable stay in this vibrant city.

For sports enthusiasts, Kolkata offers plenty of opportunities to indulge in their favorite activities. The city has a rich sporting culture with a particular affinity towards football. Head to Salt Lake Stadium, one of the largest stadiums in Asia, to catch a match of Kolkata's home team, ATK. Apart from football, Kolkata has a thriving cricket scene. You can witness the passion of cricket lovers at Eden Gardens Stadium, one of the oldest and most iconic cricket grounds in the world. The city also has numerous sports clubs that offer facilities for swimming, tennis, badminton, and more. Whether you are a professional athlete or just looking for a casual game with friends, Kolkata has something for everyone.

When it comes to leisure activities, Kolkata is a city that never sleeps. There are plenty of entertainment options available throughout the day and night. For a dose of culture, visit the Victoria Memorial, a majestic marble structure that serves as a museum and art gallery showcasing the city's history. For shopping enthusiasts, the New Market is a must-visit destination that offers a variety of products ranging from clothing to handicrafts. If you want to experience the vibrant nightlife of Kolkata, head to Park Street. This iconic street is lined with pubs, bars, and restaurants that come alive after sunset. Whatever your interests are, Kolkata is a city that offers endless possibilities for leisure and entertainment.

Kolkata, also known as the City of Joy, offers a diverse range of career options with competitive salaries in various sectors. The city is a hub for traditional industries such as jute, tea, and textiles, but has also seen tremendous growth in newer industries such as IT, healthcare, and hospitality. As a result, job opportunities are abundant in Kolkata, and with a lower cost of living compared to other major Indian cities, salaries are quite reasonable. Whether you're an expat moving to the city for work or a curious traveler looking to experience a new culture, Kolkata offers a great balance between career opportunities and cost of living.

Finances in Kolkata are quite manageable for travelers, as the city offers many affordable options for food, accommodation, and transportation. The local street food is a must-try for any foodie, with delicious snacks at incredibly cheap prices. Accommodation options range from budget hostels to luxury hotels, and public transportation such as the metro and buses are both convenient and affordable. Additionally, Kolkata is home to several local markets and bazaars where you can find unique items at bargaining prices. So if you're planning a trip to this vibrant eastern Indian city, rest assured that your finances won't be a hindrance in experiencing all that Kolkata has to offer!

Childcare prices in Kolkata, India can vary depending on the type of facility and services provided. Schools and kindergartens tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum due to the structured education and facilities they offer. However, there are also affordable options available for parents who are on a budget.

Many schools in Kolkata provide daycare services for children alongside regular classes, making it a convenient option for working parents. Kindergartens, on the other hand, are primarily focused on play-based learning and socialization. Some kindergartens in Kolkata may also offer additional services such as after-school care or transportation. Regardless of the type of childcare facility chosen, parents in Kolkata have a range of options to choose from, depending on their budget and preferences.

Kolkata is known for its affordable and stylish clothing and footwear options. A shopper can find a plethora of street markets, malls, and standalone stores to choose from. The New Market and Gariahat Market are the go-to places for budget-conscious shoppers looking for traditional Indian clothing like sarees, salwar kameez, and kurtas. Shoppers looking for trendy western wear can head to malls like City Centre, South City, and Quest Mall that offer a wide variety of options ranging from high-end to mid-range brands.

The city also offers a range of footwear options, from strappy sandals to formal shoes, all available at affordable prices. The Bata showroom on Park Street is a popular destination for shoppers looking for high-quality and stylish footwear. For those looking for inexpensive options, Hatibagan Market and the streets of Esplanade offer a variety of choices. From traditional juttis to trendy sneakers, the city caters to all fashion needs and budgets when it comes to clothing and footwear shopping.

Kolkata is a bustling city that sees the arrival of several tourists all year round. Short rent and stay options in Kolkata are convenient for those who plan to stay for just a few days or weeks. You can find rental properties in various parts of Kolkata, including central areas such as Park Street, Ballygunge, and Salt Lake City. Short-term rentals come in different shapes and sizes ranging from studio apartments to luxurious flats with multiple rooms and facilities. The prices of these short stay options vary depending on the location and amenities provided by the property.

If you are looking for affordable short-term accommodation, several guest houses and budget hotels in Kolkata offer comfortable rooms at a reasonable price. You can also find serviced apartments that provide all the necessary amenities for an extended stay. These accommodation options are usually centrally located and convenient for travelers who want to explore the city's cultural attractions and taste its delectable cuisine. Overall, short rent and stay options in Kolkata have something to offer for everyone, regardless of their budget and travel plans.

Kolkata is a city that offers various options for real estate buyers depending on their budget and requirements. From luxurious apartments to budget-friendly housing, you can find it all in Kolkata's real estate market. With the rise of commercial development, many new housing projects are also coming up, offering a wide range of options to homebuyers. Additionally, Kolkata's suburban areas also offer different real estate options, including land and bungalows.

The prices of real estate in Kolkata are relatively affordable compared to other metropolitan cities in India. However, it ultimately depends on the location and the type of property one is interested in investing in. For example, properties located in prime locations such as Park Street and Ballygunge can be more expensive than ones situated in suburbs like Rajarhat or Barasat. Regardless, the prices of real estate in Kolkata have been relatively stable, making it an attractive option for investors and homebuyers.