MumbaivsJohannesburg
Overall
💰+37.1%
Mumbai is 37.1%more expensive
Rent
🏠+28.0%
Housing is 28.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+60.0%
Restaurants 60.0% pricier
Groceries
🛒+20.0%
Food shopping 20.0% more
Comparing the cost of living between Mumbai, India and Johannesburg, South Africa reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Mumbai is more expensive than Johannesburg by approximately 37.1%. 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 Johannesburg by 22%. A one-bedroom apartment in Mumbai's city center costs around ₹35,000, while the same in Johannesburg is approximately ZAR 10,000.
Dining out in Mumbai offers significant savings compared to Johannesburg. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₹200 in Mumbai versus ZAR 130 in Johannesburg.
Public transportation in Mumbai is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₹1,500 compared to ZAR 800 in Johannesburg.
Purchasing power in Johannesburg 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 17%. 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 Johannesburg, the same lifestyle would cost around ZAR 5,314. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₹42,910 monthly in Mumbai versus ZAR 18,599 in Johannesburg. 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 Johannesburg, 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 Johannesburg 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
Johannesburg
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mumbai more expensive than Johannesburg?
Yes, Mumbai is approximately 37.1% more expensive than Johannesburg overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Mumbai compared to Johannesburg?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.4x of your Johannesburg salary when living in Mumbai. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Johannesburg, you'd need about $68,571 in Mumbai for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Mumbai and Johannesburg?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 38%, 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?
Johannesburg offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Johannesburg provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Mumbai if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Johannesburg for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Mumbai vs Johannesburg?
In Mumbai, a single person needs approximately ₹32,260 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ₹92,910. In Johannesburg, these figures are ZAR 12,314 for singles and ZAR 33,599 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Mumbai and Johannesburg 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 Johannesburg to maintain your lifestyle from Mumbai
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