Cost Comparison 2025

MumbaivsBrussels

India
Belgium

Overall

💰

+105.7%

Mumbai is 105.7%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+60.0%

Housing is 60.0% higher

Dining

🍽️

+150.0%

Restaurants 150.0% pricier

Groceries

🛒

+100.0%

Food shopping 100.0% more

Comparing the cost of living between Mumbai, India and Brussels, Belgium reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Mumbai is more expensive than Brussels by approximately 105.7%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.

Key Cost Differences

Housing costs in Mumbai are lower than in Brussels by 38%. A one-bedroom apartment in Mumbai's city center costs around ₹35,000, while the same in Brussels is approximately €1,200.

Dining out in Mumbai offers significant savings compared to Brussels. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₹200 in Mumbai versus €16 in Brussels.

Public transportation in Mumbai is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₹1,500 compared to €53 in Brussels.

Purchasing power in Brussels is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Mumbai.

Grocery shopping in Mumbai is more affordable by approximately 50%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Mumbai can expect to spend approximately ₹12,260 per month (excluding rent), while in Brussels, the same lifestyle would cost around €544. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₹42,910 monthly in Mumbai versus €1,905 in Brussels. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.

Detailed Cost Comparison

Item
Mumbai, India
Brussels, Belgium

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
₹35,000
€1,200
1BR Outside Center
₹20,000
€900
3BR City Center
₹100,000
€2,200

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
₹200
€16
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
₹1,500
€70
Cappuccino
₹150
€4
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
₹200
€5

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
₹55
€1
Bread (500g)
₹35
€2
Eggs (12)
₹80
€3
Cheese (1kg)
₹400
€12

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
₹10
€3
Monthly Pass
₹1,500
€53
Taxi Start
₹25
€3
Gasoline (1L)
₹105
€2

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
₹3,000
€180
Internet (60 Mbps)
₹1,000
€45
Mobile Minute
₹1
€0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Mumbai to Brussels, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Brussels to Mumbai requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.

Quality of Life Indices

Mumbai

Cost of Living Index35
Rent Index25
Purchasing Power Index40

Brussels

Cost of Living Index72
Rent Index40
Purchasing Power Index85

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mumbai more expensive than Brussels?

Yes, Mumbai is approximately 105.7% more expensive than Brussels overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

How much salary do I need in Mumbai compared to Brussels?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 2.1x of your Brussels salary when living in Mumbai. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Brussels, you'd need about $102,857 in Mumbai for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Mumbai and Brussels?

The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 60%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.

Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?

Brussels offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Brussels provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Mumbai if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Brussels for better value.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Mumbai vs Brussels?

In Mumbai, a single person needs approximately ₹32,260 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ₹92,910. In Brussels, these figures are €1,444 for singles and €3,505 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Mumbai and Brussels in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.

Need to calculate salary equivalence?

Find out how much you need to earn in Brussels to maintain your lifestyle from Mumbai

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-15 • Data sourced from multiple providers