MumbaivsSão Paulo
Overall
💰+37.1%
Mumbai is 37.1%more expensive
Rent
🏠+20.0%
Housing is 20.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+33.3%
Restaurants 33.3% pricier
Groceries
🛒+28.6%
Food shopping 28.6% more
Comparing the cost of living between Mumbai, India and São Paulo, Brazil reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Mumbai is more expensive than São Paulo 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 São Paulo by 17%. A one-bedroom apartment in Mumbai's city center costs around ₹35,000, while the same in São Paulo is approximately R$2,800.
Dining out in Mumbai offers significant savings compared to São Paulo. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₹200 in Mumbai versus R$30 in São Paulo.
Public transportation in Mumbai is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₹1,500 compared to R$230 in São Paulo.
Grocery shopping in Mumbai is more affordable by approximately 22%. 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 São Paulo, the same lifestyle would cost around R$1,250. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₹42,910 monthly in Mumbai versus R$4,375 in São Paulo. 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 São Paulo, 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 São Paulo 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
São Paulo
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mumbai more expensive than São Paulo?
Yes, Mumbai is approximately 37.1% more expensive than São Paulo overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Mumbai compared to São Paulo?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.4x of your São Paulo salary when living in Mumbai. For example, if you earn $50,000 in São Paulo, you'd need about $68,571 in Mumbai for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Mumbai and São Paulo?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 25%, 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?
Mumbai offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, São Paulo provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Mumbai if you prioritize earning potential, or São Paulo for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Mumbai vs São Paulo?
In Mumbai, a single person needs approximately ₹32,260 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ₹92,910. In São Paulo, these figures are R$3,050 for singles and R$7,875 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Mumbai and São Paulo 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 São Paulo to maintain your lifestyle from Mumbai
Calculate Salary Equivalence