Check the standings to see how Mumbai moved up 11 points in the worldwide cost of living rating, Delhi up 4 spots, and Chennai & Bengaluru down

In Mercer's 2024 Cost of Living Survey, Mumbai rose 11 places to 136th place worldwide, retaining its position as the most costly city in India for foreigners. Other noteworthy changes include New Delhi moving up four ranks and Bengaluru and Chennai seeing minor drops.

Even with Mumbai's ascent in the rankings, the general affordability of Indian cities continues to be a major selling point for international corporations or Indian businesses trying to draw in top talent from across the world.

Mumbai remained the most costly city in India for foreigners, according to Mercer's 2024 Cost of Living Survey, which was made public on June 17. Mumbai moved up to 136th place in the globe, a considerable rise from its previous ranking, according to a report that evaluated living expenses in more than 400 cities worldwide.

"India has remained largely resilient in the face of global economic challenges," said Rahul Sharma, Global Mobility Leader at Mercer for India. The general affordability of Indian cities is still a major selling point for international organizations and Indian businesses trying to draw in top talent, even in the wake of Mumbai's ascent in the rankings.

Mumbai is now ranked 21st in Asia for cost of living, while New Delhi comes in at number thirty. The region's overall economic developments are reflected in these rankings.

The most expensive city in the world is still Hong Kong. New Delhi is rated 164th out of all Indian cities; Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Kolkata, and Hyderabad are placed 189th, 195th, 202nd, 205th, and 207th, in that order. Notably, Bengaluru and Chennai have fallen in the ranks, while Pune and New Delhi have risen.

The cost of accommodation for foreigners has increased dramatically; Delhi has had the most increase, at 12–15%, followed by Mumbai (6–8%), Bengaluru (3-6%), Pune, Hyderabad, and Chennai (2-4%). Kolkata saw the least increase—less than 2%.

While prices in Chennai have increased by 20% in the last year, Delhi has the lowest prices for alcohol and tobacco. On the other hand, Bengaluru and Mumbai had the highest transit expenses.

Prices for milk, dairy products, bread, drinks, oils, fruits, and vegetables are lowest in Kolkata and highest in Pune.

Pune and Mumbai also ranked first for high utility and energy bills. When it came to the cost of personal care products like makeup and toiletries, Mumbai was the most expensive city, followed by Chennai and Kolkata.