Visakhapatnam,
also known as Vizag, is a beautiful coastal city in the Indian state of Andhra
Pradesh. The city is known for its stunning beaches, historic landmarks, and
thriving industries. If you are planning to move to Visakhapatnam, one of the
important things to consider is the cost of living. In this article, we will
provide an overview of the cost of living in Visakhapatnam.
Housing
The cost
of housing in Visakhapatnam varies depending on the location and type of accommodation.
The city has a mix of both affordable and luxury apartments. A 1 BHK
(bedroom-hall-kitchen) apartment in the city centre can cost around Rs. 8,000
to Rs. 15,000 per month, while a 3 BHK apartment can cost anywhere from Rs.
15,000 to Rs. 30,000 per month. Outside the city centre, the cost of housing is
relatively lower, with a 1 BHK apartment costing around Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 12,000
per month and a 3 BHK apartment costing around Rs. 12,000 to Rs. 25,000 per
month.
Transportation
Visakhapatnam
has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses,
auto-rickshaws, and taxis. The cost of transportation is relatively low
compared to other major cities in India. The minimum fare for a city bus is Rs.
5, while the minimum fare for an auto-rickshaw is Rs. 25 for the first 1.5 kilometres
and Rs. 12 for every additional kilometre. Taxis are also available in the
city, and the fare varies depending on the distance travelled.
Food
Visakhapatnam
is known for its delicious local cuisine, which includes seafood, biryani, and
sweets. The cost of food in Visakhapatnam is relatively lower compared to other
cities in India. A meal at a local restaurant can cost anywhere from Rs. 100 to
Rs. 300, depending on the type of cuisine and the restaurant's location. Street
food is also available in the city, with prices ranging from Rs. 10 to Rs. 50
per item.
Groceries
The cost
of groceries in Visakhapatnam is affordable, with a variety of options
available in local markets and supermarkets. The price of vegetables and fruits
varies depending on the season, with prices ranging from Rs. 20 to Rs. 100 per
kilogram. Other groceries such as rice, wheat flour, and lentils are also
available at reasonable prices.
Utilities
The cost
of utilities such as electricity, water, and gas in Visakhapatnam is relatively
low. The average monthly electricity bill for a household in the city is around
Rs. 1,500, while the monthly water bill is around Rs. 300. The cost of gas
varies depending on usage, with a 14 kg gas cylinder costing around Rs. 600.
Education
Visakhapatnam
has a number of reputed educational institutions, including schools and
universities. The cost of education varies depending on the institution and the
course of study. The fees for schools in Visakhapatnam range from Rs. 10,000 to
Rs. 50,000 per year, while the fees for universities can be higher, ranging
from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 2,00,000 per year.
Healthcare
Visakhapatnam
has a number of good hospitals and medical facilities. The cost of healthcare
in Visakhapatnam is relatively lower compared to other cities in India. A
consultation with a general physician can cost around Rs. 300 to Rs.
Specialized
healthcare services such as dental care, eye care, and dermatology are also
available in Visakhapatnam, with the cost of consultation ranging from Rs. 500
to Rs. 1,500. The cost of medical procedures and surgeries can vary depending
on the complexity of the procedure and the hospital where it is performed.
Entertainment
Visakhapatnam
offers a variety of entertainment options, including movie theaters, shopping
malls, and parks. The cost of entertainment is relatively low compared to other
major cities in India. A movie ticket in Visakhapatnam costs around Rs. 150 to
Rs. 200, while a visit to a shopping mall or amusement park can cost anywhere
from Rs. 500 to Rs. 1,000 per person.
Overall,
the cost of living in Visakhapatnam is relatively lower compared to other major
cities in India. The city offers affordable housing, transportation, food, and
healthcare services, making it an attractive destination for students and
professionals alike. The city also offers a high quality of life, with a
pleasant climate, beautiful beaches, and a rich cultural heritage.