Ahmedabad vs Dhaka: Cost of Living Comparison
Ahmedabad and Dhaka are two major South Asian economic engines with distinct cost profiles. While both offer a budget-friendly lifestyle compared to Western standards, Ahmedabad generally provides a more structured urban experience at a lower price point. Dhaka, being one of the most densely populated cities in the world, faces higher costs in real estate and imported goods, making it the more expensive of the two cities for the average resident or expat.
Is Ahmedabad more expensive than Dhaka?
In a direct comparison, Dhaka is approximately 15% to 20% more expensive than Ahmedabad. The local purchasing power in Ahmedabad is significantly higher, meaning residents can afford a better standard of living for the same amount of USD. While a monthly budget of $1,100 might support a comfortable lifestyle in Ahmedabad, you would likely need closer to $1,400 in Dhaka to achieve a comparable quality of housing and amenities.
Housing and Rent: Ahmedabad vs Dhaka
Housing is the primary driver of the price gap between these cities. In Ahmedabad, a modern one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs between $200 and $320 USD per month. In Dhaka, particularly in secure or sought-after neighborhoods like Gulshan or Banani, a similar unit can range from $350 to $550 USD. Property purchase prices also trend higher in Dhaka due to extreme land scarcity and high demand for luxury developments.
Food and Dining Costs
Both cities offer incredibly affordable local cuisine and fresh produce. However, Ahmedabad's restaurant scene is generally more budget-friendly; a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs about $15 USD. In Dhaka, a similar dining experience often costs between $22 and $30 USD. Grocery prices for staples like rice, bread, and vegetables are comparable, though dairy products and poultry are slightly more affordable in Ahmedabad.
Public Transit and Fuel
Ahmedabad offers superior transportation infrastructure, including a dedicated Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) and an expanding Metro. A monthly pass costs roughly $10-$12 USD. Dhaka's transportation is dominated by rickshaws and ride-sharing services, but extreme traffic congestion often leads to higher daily commuting costs in terms of both time and money. Fuel prices are generally higher in Dhaka, reflecting international market fluctuations and local import duties.
Lifestyle, Utilities, and Entertainment
Utilities, including electricity and water for a standard apartment, average around $55 USD in Ahmedabad and $75 USD in Dhaka, with Dhaka's costs rising significantly during summer due to air conditioning needs. Entertainment, such as cinema tickets and gym memberships, is roughly 25% cheaper in Ahmedabad. It is worth noting that Ahmedabad is a 'dry' city regarding alcohol, which drastically reduces typical 'nightlife' expenditures compared to Dhaka, where alcohol is available in specific licensed venues but is heavily taxed and expensive.
How to get from Ahmedabad to Dhaka
There are currently no direct flights between Ahmedabad (AMD) and Dhaka (DAC). Travelers typically fly via major Indian hubs such as Kolkata (CCU), Delhi (DEL), or Mumbai (BOM). The most common route involves a short layover in Kolkata, with a total travel time ranging from 5 to 8 hours. Indirect flights usually cost between $150 and $250 USD for a round trip when booked in advance.
The Verdict: Ahmedabad or Dhaka?
For digital nomads and remote workers, Ahmedabad is the winner due to its lower cost of living, better infrastructure, and higher safety ratings. For families, Ahmedabad offers a more organized environment with lower healthcare and education costs. Dhaka remains a vital hub for those in the textile and NGO sectors, but expats should negotiate higher relocation packages to offset the premium costs of housing and imported commodities.
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