MumbaivsKuala Lumpur
Overall
💰+42.9%
Mumbai is 42.9%more expensive
Rent
🏠+20.0%
Housing is 20.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+33.3%
Restaurants 33.3% pricier
Groceries
🛒+57.1%
Food shopping 57.1% more
Comparing the cost of living between Mumbai, India and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Mumbai is more expensive than Kuala Lumpur by approximately 42.9%. 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 Kuala Lumpur by 17%. A one-bedroom apartment in Mumbai's city center costs around ₹35,000, while the same in Kuala Lumpur is approximately MYR 2,500.
Dining out in Mumbai offers significant savings compared to Kuala Lumpur. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₹200 in Mumbai versus MYR 15 in Kuala Lumpur.
Public transportation in Mumbai is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₹1,500 compared to MYR 100 in Kuala Lumpur.
Purchasing power in Kuala Lumpur 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 36%. 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 Kuala Lumpur, the same lifestyle would cost around MYR 975. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₹42,910 monthly in Mumbai versus MYR 3,413 in Kuala Lumpur. 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 Kuala Lumpur, 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 Kuala Lumpur 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
Kuala Lumpur
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mumbai more expensive than Kuala Lumpur?
Yes, Mumbai is approximately 42.9% more expensive than Kuala Lumpur overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Mumbai compared to Kuala Lumpur?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.4x of your Kuala Lumpur salary when living in Mumbai. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Kuala Lumpur, you'd need about $71,429 in Mumbai for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Mumbai and Kuala Lumpur?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 36%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Kuala Lumpur offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Kuala Lumpur provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Mumbai if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Kuala Lumpur for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Mumbai vs Kuala Lumpur?
In Mumbai, a single person needs approximately ₹32,260 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ₹92,910. In Kuala Lumpur, these figures are MYR 2,475 for singles and MYR 6,413 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Mumbai and Kuala Lumpur 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.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Kuala Lumpur to maintain your lifestyle from Mumbai
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