🇲🇻 Cost of Living: Maldives vs India — Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameRepublic of the Maldives
CapitalMalé
Population515,132
Area300.0 km²
LanguagesMaldivian
CurrencyMaldivian rufiyaa (.ރ)
TimezoneUTC+05:00
RegionAsia / Southern Asia
Drives onLeft
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$26,183 (2024)
Inflation Rate1.4% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$1,159 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend18.1% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)5.2% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data
India is generally cheaper than the Maldives, with an overall cost of living that is approximately 40-50% lower.
Quick Facts
Maldives GDP per Capita (PPP)19,890
India GDP per Capita (PPP)7,120
Maldives Inflation Rate2.5%
India Inflation Rate5.5%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)India
Overview: Maldives vs India
The Maldives and India are two neighboring countries in South Asia with vastly different economies and cost of living. The Maldives is a small island nation with a high-income economy, driven primarily by tourism, while India is a large and diverse country with a rapidly growing economy. The cost of living in the Maldives is significantly higher than in India, due to the country's reliance on imports and limited land area. In contrast, India has a large and competitive market, which helps to keep prices low.
The overall cost of living in the Maldives is approximately 40-50% higher than in India, making it a more expensive destination for tourists and expats. However, the Maldives offers a unique and luxurious island experience, with high-end resorts and pristine beaches. In contrast, India offers a rich cultural heritage, diverse cuisine, and vibrant cities, at a lower cost. For example, a meal at a mid-range restaurant in the Maldives can cost around $20-30 per person, while a similar meal in India can cost around $5-10 per person.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Maldives (USD)
India (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
800
200
75% more expensive
1BR Apartment (Outside)
500
150
70% more expensive
3BR Apartment (City Center)
1,500
400
73% more expensive
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Maldives (USD)
India (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
20
5
75% more expensive
Groceries (monthly)
300
150
50% more expensive
Beer (500ml)
10
2
80% more expensive
Coffee
5
1
80% more expensive
Transport Comparison
Item
Maldives (USD)
India (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
50
10
80% more expensive
Taxi (per km)
2
0.50
75% more expensive
Fuel (per liter)
1.50
1.00
33% more expensive
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Maldives (USD)
India (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
150
50
66% more expensive
Internet (60 Mbps)
50
20
60% more expensive
Mobile Plan
20
10
50% more expensive
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Maldives (USD)
India (USD)
Savings
Budget
1,500
800
47%
Mid-Range
2,500
1,200
52%
Comfortable
4,000
2,000
50%
Where Each Country Wins
Maldives is cheaper for:
Luxury resorts and high-end tourism
Pristine beaches and unique island experiences
High-end dining and entertainment options
India is cheaper for:
Accommodation and rent
Food and groceries
Transportation and fuel
Cultural experiences and historical sites
Bottom Line
The Maldives and India offer different value propositions for different lifestyles. For expats and tourists looking for a luxurious island experience, the Maldives may be worth the higher cost. However, for students, retirees, and families on a budget, India offers a more affordable and diverse experience. In terms of overall value, India is the clear winner, with a lower cost of living and a wide range of cultural and historical experiences. However, the Maldives offers a unique and luxurious experience that may be worth the extra cost for those who can afford it. Ultimately, the choice between the Maldives and India depends on individual priorities and budgets.