Ahmedabad vs Pune: Cost of Living Comparison

Housing is the primary driver of the cost difference. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Ahmedabad averages around $200–$250 per month, whereas a similar unit in Pune’s tech corridors like Hinjewadi or Baner can cost $300–$400. Property purchase prices also reflect this trend; Pune’s real estate market is significantly more expensive per square foot due to higher demand from the IT workforce and a more constrained geographical footprint compared to Ahmedabad’s expansive urban sprawl.

Both cities offer exceptional culinary scenes, but Ahmedabad is notably cheaper for budget dining and groceries. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Ahmedabad costs about $2–$3, while Pune averages $4–$5. Grocery costs for staples like milk, bread, and local produce are roughly 5-8% lower in Ahmedabad. However, Pune offers a much wider variety of non-vegetarian and international dining options, including a thriving pub culture, which can lead to higher overall entertainment-related food spending.

Local transportation costs are slightly lower in Ahmedabad thanks to its robust BRTS (Bus Rapid Transit System) and the expanding Metro network. In Pune, public transport is often cited as a challenge, leading to a higher reliance on private vehicles, auto-rickshaws, and ride-hailing services like Uber/Ola, which increases monthly expenditure. Fuel prices are generally higher in Maharashtra (Pune) than in Gujarat (Ahmedabad) due to state-level taxation differences, making car ownership more expensive in Pune.

Basic utilities (electricity, water, heating) for an 85m2 apartment typically range from $40–$60 in Ahmedabad, while Pune can be slightly higher at $50–$75, depending on seasonal AC usage. Fitness and leisure also vary; a gym membership in a premium Pune neighborhood costs around $30–$45 per month, compared to $20–$35 in Ahmedabad. Pune’s higher cost is often justified by its more diverse entertainment options, including concerts, nightlife, and weekend getaways to the Western Ghats.

There are currently no direct flight routes between Ahmedabad (AMD) and Pune (PNQ). The most efficient way to travel is via a connecting flight through Mumbai or Bangalore, which typically takes 3 to 5 hours. Alternatively, several high-speed trains and luxury sleeper buses operate daily, covering the distance in approximately 9 to 12 hours. For those who prefer driving, the NH48 offers a scenic route through the industrial heartland of Western India.