Moving to a new city like ‘Pune’ is exciting, but let’s be honest, it also brings a lot of “money math.” Rent, food, transport, weekend plans, everything adds up. And for those heading to Pune for work, study, or a fresh start, the question that comes up most often is: what’s the cost of living in Pune?
Pune isn’t as chaotic as Mumbai or as tech-stuffed as Bangalore, but it’s growing fast. With a mix of great weather, top colleges, and a booming IT sector, it’s attracting more newcomers every year. And with that, living expenses are quietly climbing too.
Whether you’re a student, a freelancer, or a young professional trying to plan your finances, understanding the cost of living in Pune helps you avoid surprises and prepare better.
Why Pune Appeals to So Many?
It’s peaceful yet modern: You get city vibes without the daily stress of overcrowded metros.
- Home to top institutions: From Symbiosis to COEP, it’s a student paradise.
- Good job market: Hinjewadi, Kharadi, and Magarpatta house major IT companies and startups.
- Pleasant weather: Unlike many cities, Pune has a comfortable climate almost all year round.
Still, Pune isn’t “cheap.” Rents, transport, and weekend fun come at a price, and that’s where smart planning can save your wallet.
Pune vs Hyderabad: What’s More Affordable?
Let's see which is more affordable between Pune and Hyderabad in 2025:
| Expense Category | Pune (Monthly) | Hyderabad (Monthly) |
| 1BHK Rent (City Area) | ₹17,000 – ₹25,000 | ₹13,000 – ₹20,000 |
| 1BHK Rent (Suburbs) | ₹11,000 – ₹16,000 | ₹9,000 – ₹13,000 |
| Groceries | ₹4,000 – ₹5,500 | ₹3,000 – ₹4,500 |
| Internet & Utilities | ₹1,500 – ₹2,000 | ₹1,200 – ₹1,800 |
| Public Transport | ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 | ₹800 – ₹1,200 |
| Dining & Leisure | ₹2,000 – ₹3,000 | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 |
As we can see, the cost of living in Pune is slightly higher than in Hyderabad, especially when it comes to rent and lifestyle spending.
Where Does the Money Go in Pune?
- Accommodation
Rent is the biggest monthly expense as areas like Koregaon Park and Viman Nagar are more expensive, while suburbs like Katraj and Wakad are more affordable. - Food & Groceries
Eating out regularly can get costly. Many people prefer local mess services or cooking at home to save money. - Transport
While Pune has public buses and metro lines under development, many rely on two-wheelers or app-based cabs, adding to monthly travel costs. - Lifestyle & Emergencies
Gym memberships, phone bills, occasional medical expenses, or unplanned repairs can add on, especially during the first few months.
That’s why managing money smartly is more important and helps you to analyze the real cost of living in Pune.
Adjusting to Pune’s Expenses
Rhea, a 24-year-old graphic designer, moved from Indore to Pune last year. She found a shared flat in Kharadi and quickly realized that the ₹25K she thought was “enough” barely covered her rent and groceries.
“It’s not just about surviving. I wanted to enjoy the city too. But every time I went out or ordered in, I ended up stressing by the 20th of the month.”
Like many others, she learned the hard way that while Pune is beautiful and full of opportunities, it also requires better financial planning.
Bottom Line,
So, is the cost of living in Pune manageable? Absolutely if you know what to expect, plan your budget, and stay financially flexible. While rent and food may stretch your paycheck at first, the city also offers great returns: career opportunities, personal growth, and a lifestyle that blends calm and culture.
And if things ever get tight, remember you don’t need to panic or pause your plans. A smart backup like a credit line or loan app can help you stay on your feet and in control. Because settling into a new city should feel exciting, not overwhelming—and a little financial support can go a long way.
So, if you are moving to a new city? Don’t let unexpected expenses slow you down. Explore a reliable loan app that gives you access to a credit line borrow only what you need, repay flexibly, and avoid financial stress during your settling-in period.
FAQs
1. Is Pune affordable for students and young professionals?
Pune isn’t as expensive as metros like Mumbai, but it’s not dirt cheap either. With good planning, students and professionals can manage comfortably.
2. What’s a realistic monthly budget for living in Pune?
Expect to spend around ₹25,000 to ₹35,000 per month, depending on your lifestyle and location. Rent takes up the biggest chunk.
3. Which are some budget-friendly areas to live in Pune?
Places like Wakad, Katraj, and Hinjewadi are more affordable, especially for students and those just starting out.
4. Is public transport convenient in Pune?
It’s getting better with the metro coming in, but for now, many rely on buses, two-wheelers, or ride-hailing apps to get around.
5. Can I survive in Pune on a ₹25K salary?
You can, but you’ll need to be careful with expenses. Sharing rent, cooking at home, and tracking your spending can help.
