Delhi vs Dhaka: Cost of Living Comparison
Choosing between two of South Asia's most prominent megacities involves a nuanced look at affordability. While both Delhi and Dhaka offer a low cost of living compared to Western standards, Delhi generally presents a more developed infrastructure and higher purchasing power, whereas Dhaka remains one of the most densely populated and budget-friendly capitals in the region, albeit with rising costs in its upscale neighborhoods.
Is Delhi more expensive than Dhaka?
In a head-to-head comparison, Delhi is approximately 10-15% more expensive than Dhaka when factoring in the total cost of living. However, the local purchasing power in Delhi is significantly higher (estimated at 40-50% higher) due to a more robust job market in technology, finance, and services. While a mid-range lifestyle in Delhi might cost around $800–$1,100 per month, a similar standard in Dhaka can be maintained for $700–$950. The value for money in Delhi often comes from better public amenities and a wider variety of consumer goods.
Housing and Rent: South Delhi vs. Gulshan
Housing is the primary driver of the price gap. In Delhi, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically costs between $300 and $500 USD, with premium areas like South Delhi or Shanti Niketan reaching much higher. In Dhaka, central areas like Gulshan, Banani, and Baridhara are surprisingly expensive due to high demand from the expat and diplomatic community, with rents for a similar one-bedroom ranging from $250 to $450 USD. Generally, outskirts and suburban areas in Delhi (like parts of Rohini or Dwarka) offer more modern facilities for the price than comparable areas in Dhaka.
Food and Dining: Street Eats to Fine Dining
Food costs are remarkably similar across both cities. A basic meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs roughly $3–$5 USD in both capitals. Delhi offers a more diverse international culinary scene, whereas Dhaka’s dining is heavily focused on traditional Bengali cuisine and a growing cafe culture. Grocery prices for staples like rice, milk, and vegetables are slightly lower in Dhaka (by about 5-8%), but Delhi offers a wider variety of imported international brands at more competitive prices due to India's larger retail market.
Transportation: Metro vs. Rickshaws
Delhi holds a clear advantage in public transportation thanks to its extensive and efficient Metro network, which is both affordable and air-conditioned. A monthly pass costs around $25 USD. Dhaka's traffic congestion is world-famous, and while the new Dhaka Metro Rail is a game-changer, the city still relies heavily on rickshaws and buses. Petrol prices are generally higher in India than in Bangladesh, making private vehicle ownership slightly more expensive in Delhi, though the availability of ride-sharing apps like Uber and Ola is excellent in both cities.
Lifestyle, Utilities, and Entertainment
Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for a standard apartment are roughly 15-20% cheaper in Dhaka, averaging $40–$60 USD per month compared to Delhi's $60–$90 USD, largely due to high AC usage during Delhi's extreme summers. Internet and mobile data are very affordable in both locations. For entertainment, a cinema ticket costs about $5–$7 USD in Delhi, while Dhaka's modern cineplexes charge similar rates. Gym memberships in Delhi offer more variety, with high-end clubs costing $40+ USD per month, while Dhaka’s fitness centers are slightly more modest in pricing.
How to get from Delhi to Dhaka
While no direct flight route was specified in the primary data, the most common way to travel between Delhi (DEL) and Dhaka (DAC) is via a direct flight, which takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Several regional carriers operate this route daily. Alternatively, travelers can take the 'Maitree Express' train from Kolkata to Dhaka after a domestic flight or train journey from Delhi to Kolkata.
The Verdict: Delhi or Dhaka?
The choice between these two cities depends on your professional needs. For digital nomads and expats seeking a more robust infrastructure, a massive cultural scene, and better air connectivity, Delhi is the superior choice despite the slightly higher costs. For those on a strict budget or working in specific sectors like the garment industry or NGOs, Dhaka offers an incredibly low entry point for cost of living. Families will generally find better international schooling and healthcare facilities in Delhi, though Dhaka's elite neighborhoods provide a very tight-knit and secure community for expatriates.
Borderly AI