MumbaivsBudapest
Overall
💰+48.6%
Mumbai is 48.6%more expensive
Rent
🏠+40.0%
Housing is 40.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+50.0%
Restaurants 50.0% pricier
Groceries
🛒+37.1%
Food shopping 37.1% more
Comparing the cost of living between Mumbai, India and Budapest, Hungary reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Mumbai is more expensive than Budapest by approximately 48.6%. 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 Budapest by 29%. A one-bedroom apartment in Mumbai's city center costs around ₹35,000, while the same in Budapest is approximately HUF 200,000.
Dining out in Mumbai offers significant savings compared to Budapest. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₹200 in Mumbai versus HUF 2,000 in Budapest.
Public transportation in Mumbai is more affordable, with monthly passes at ₹1,500 compared to HUF 9,500 in Budapest.
Purchasing power in Budapest 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 27%. 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 Budapest, the same lifestyle would cost around HUF 94,600. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₹42,910 monthly in Mumbai versus HUF 331,100 in Budapest. 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
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Mumbai to Budapest, 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 Budapest 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
Budapest
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mumbai more expensive than Budapest?
Yes, Mumbai is approximately 48.6% more expensive than Budapest overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Mumbai compared to Budapest?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.5x of your Budapest salary when living in Mumbai. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Budapest, you'd need about $74,286 in Mumbai for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Mumbai and Budapest?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 33%, 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?
Budapest offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Budapest provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Mumbai if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Budapest for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Mumbai vs Budapest?
In Mumbai, a single person needs approximately ₹32,260 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ₹92,910. In Budapest, these figures are HUF 234,600 for singles and HUF 581,100 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Mumbai and Budapest 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 Budapest to maintain your lifestyle from Mumbai
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