🇮🇳 Cost of Living in Kolkata - Prices & Budget Guide
Last updated: March 2026
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$11,160 (2024)
Inflation Rate5.0% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$85 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend43.9% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)4.1% (2022)
Source: World Bank Open Data
The cost of living in Kolkata is generally affordable, with a daily budget of $15-30 USD per person for backpackers, $30-60 USD for mid-range travelers, and $60-100 USD for those seeking comfort.
Quick Facts
Cost LevelAffordable
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$15-30 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$30-60 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$60-100 USD
CurrencyINR
Tipping Customnot expected, but 5-10% in restaurants and bars is appreciated
How Expensive Is Kolkata?
Kolkata, the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal, is a city with a rich cultural heritage and a relatively low cost of living compared to other major cities in India. The cost of living in Kolkata is lower than in cities like Mumbai or Delhi, but higher than in smaller towns and cities in India. Compared to global averages, Kolkata is an affordable city, with prices for accommodation, food, and transportation being relatively low. However, prices can vary depending on the location, with areas like Park Street and Camac Street being more expensive than other parts of the city.
Overall, Kolkata offers a great balance of affordability and quality of life, making it an attractive destination for tourists, expats, and locals alike. The city's affordable cost of living, combined with its rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere, make it an ideal place to visit or live. Whether you're a backpacker on a tight budget or a traveler seeking comfort and luxury, Kolkata has something to offer.
Accommodation Prices
Type
Price Range (USD/night)
Notes
Hostel/Budget
$5-15
Basic amenities, shared rooms
Mid-Range Hotel
$20-50
Private rooms, air conditioning, Wi-Fi
Luxury/Resort
$80-200
High-end amenities, spacious rooms, excellent service
Apartment Rent (monthly)
$150-500
City center: $300-500, outside: $150-300
Food & Dining Prices
Meal Type
Price Range (USD)
Street Food / Local Eatery
$1-3
Casual Restaurant
$5-10
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
$15-30
Fine Dining
$30-50
Beer (local)
$2-5
Coffee
$1-3
Water (1.5L bottle)
$0.50-1
Transport Costs
Transport
Cost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride
$0.20-0.50
Taxi (per km)
$0.50-1
Domestic flight
$50-200
Fuel (per liter)
$0.70-1
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Category
Budget ($)
Mid-Range ($)
Comfortable ($)
Rent
150
300
500
Food
150
300
500
Transport
50
100
200
Utilities
50
100
150
Entertainment
100
200
300
Total
500
1000
1650
Money-Saving Tips
Consider staying in a hostel or budget hotel to save on accommodation costs
Eat at local eateries and street food stalls to experience authentic cuisine at affordable prices
Use public transportation, such as buses and metro, to get around the city
Avoid traveling during peak hours to save on taxi fares
Buy groceries and snacks from local markets to save on food costs
Take advantage of free attractions and activities, such as visiting the Victoria Memorial or taking a stroll along the Hooghly River, to save on entertainment costs