Why living in Bengaluru is expensive as compared to Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai
The article analyzes why Bengaluru is more expensive to live in compared to other major Indian cities like Mumbai and Delhi. It attributes this to Bengaluru's limited rail-based commuter network, which restricts affordable housing options to a smaller radius.
Why it matters
Provides insight into urban planning and the economic impact of public transportation infrastructure on cost of living.
Commuters in Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai not only pay less for rail-based commuting, but also enjoy access to a much larger housing market because their rail systems connect distant, lower-cost suburbs to the city’s economic core. Bengaluru commuters generally pay more while also having a significantly smaller rail-served commuter radius.
In any case, for shorter distances, commuters might opt for personal vehicles even if the cost is higher compared to public transport. The benefits of a metro or suburban rail system — in terms of economics and convenience — become noticeable only once the daily travel distance gets longer.
The farther a person stays from the central business district (CBD), greater the chances of lower cost for housing. Let us see how far a person can stay from the CBD of each city.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in