Cost of Living in Visakhapatnam

Cost Guide for Living in Visakhapatnam, India

Visakhapatnam, also known as Vizag, is a port city situated in the southeastern coast of India. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and emerging IT and pharma industries. If you are considering living in Visakhapatnam, it is essential to understand the cost of living in the city to plan your budget effectively. This comprehensive cost guide will provide you with an overview of the key expenses you can expect when living in Visakhapatnam.

Rent Ranges by Neighborhood

Visakhapatnam offers a range of residential options catering to different budget preferences. The rental costs can vary significantly depending on the locality and the type of accommodation. Here is a general overview of rent ranges in popular neighborhoods in Visakhapatnam:

- Beach Road: Being a prime location with proximity to the beach and commercial areas, the rent for a 1BHK apartment starts from INR 10,000 per month and can go up to INR 25,000 per month. - MVP Colony: A well-established residential area with good connectivity, the rent for a 2BHK apartment ranges from INR 15,000 to INR 30,000 per month. - Madhurawada: A developing suburb with modern amenities, the rent for a 3BHK apartment can range from INR 20,000 to INR 35,000 per month.

Coworking Costs

For those looking for coworking spaces in Visakhapatnam, the city offers a variety of options with flexible pricing plans. On average, a hot desk in a coworking space can cost you around INR 6,000 to INR 10,000 per month, while a dedicated desk may range from INR 8,000 to INR 15,000 per month.

SIM/Data Plans

Major telecom operators in India like Airtel, Vodafone Idea, and Jio offer a range of prepaid and postpaid SIM/data plans in Visakhapatnam. For a basic prepaid plan with data, calls, and SMS, you can expect to pay around INR 150 to INR 300 per month. Postpaid plans with additional benefits may range from INR 500 to INR 1000 per month.

Food Costs

Visakhapatnam boasts a vibrant food scene with options ranging from local street food to upscale restaurants. If you prefer home-cooked meals, a basic monthly grocery bill for a single person can be around INR 3,000 to INR 5,000. Eating out at local eateries may cost you around INR 200 to INR 500 per meal, while dining at mid-range restaurants can cost around INR 500 to INR 1,000 for two people.

Transport Passes

Public transport in Visakhapatnam includes buses and auto-rickshaws. Monthly bus passes are available for around INR 800 to INR 1,200, depending on the distance and routes covered. Auto-rickshaw fares vary based on the distance travelled, with short rides costing around INR 30 to INR 50.

Gym Memberships

For fitness enthusiasts, gym memberships in Visakhapatnam can range from INR 1,000 to INR 3,000 per month, depending on the facilities and services offered by the gym.

Internet Speeds

Visakhapatnam has a decent internet infrastructure with providers like ACT Fibernet, BSNL, and Airtel offering high-speed broadband services. You can expect internet plans with speeds ranging from 50 Mbps to 300 Mbps, with prices starting from around INR 500 to INR 2,000 per month.

Safety Notes

Visakhapatnam is considered a relatively safe city compared to other major Indian cities. However, like any urban area, it is advisable to take common safety precautions, especially while travelling at night and in crowded areas.

Neighborhood Comparison

Each neighborhood in Visakhapatnam has its unique charm and amenities. While Beach Road offers a relaxed beachside living experience, MVP Colony provides a balance of residential tranquillity and commercial accessibility. Madhurawada, on the other hand, is ideal for those seeking modern amenities and proximity to IT hubs.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

Based on the above cost estimates, here is a rough monthly budget breakdown for living in Visakhapatnam:

- Rent: INR 10,000 to INR 35,000 - Coworking Space: INR 6,000 to INR 15,000 - SIM/Data Plan: INR 150 to INR 1,000 - Food: INR 6,000 to INR 15,000 - Transport: INR 800 to INR 1,200 - Gym Membership: INR 1,000 to INR 3,000 - Internet: INR 500 to INR 2,000 - Miscellaneous: INR 5,000 to INR 10,000

Conclusion

Living in Visakhapatnam offers a unique blend of affordability, cultural richness, and modern amenities. By understanding the cost of living in the city and planning your budget accordingly, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in this vibrant coastal city.