The ‘City of Joy’ is what Kolkata is known as in India. Previously called Calcutta, it is the capital of the state of West Bengal. As it was an East India Company trading post, during the British Raj, Kolkata retains the impactful colonial architecture and has rich history and culture associated with it. There are beautiful art galleries and several cultural festivals that have people from all over India flocking here to experience.

Kolkata is also famous for being the location of Mother House, the headquarters of Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity. It is located along the Hooghly River, which makes it incredibly beautiful. Some iconic locations in Kolkata include Victoria Memorial, Marble Palace, Howrah Bridge, Sunderbans and Kalighat Kali Temple.

With its vibrant culture, rich history, delicious cuisine and job opportunities, the city draws those from all over India. There are many famous international and Indian organisations with offices here, including Britannia, Coal India, National Insurance Company, Reliance Industries and ITC Limited.

Living in Kolkata is considerably more affordable than in other metros in India such as Mumbai or Delhi. Let’s take a look at the cost of living in Kolkata.

An overview of the cost of living in Kolkata

Before we delve deep into the cost of living in Kolkata, we’ll draw out an overview of rents and household expenses for different types of people living there. Here we will include students and single people, couples and families. This will give you a basic idea of how much each group will approximately be spending each month. Keep in mind that some expenses such as entertainment (movies, theatre plays, activities and hobbies), travel costs (for work and leisure), shopping and leisure activities are very subjective. These costs will need to be added to the estimates mentioned below.

Cost of living in Kolkata: students and singles

1. Housing expenses

Renting a home in Kolkata is considered quite affordable when compared to other big cities in India like Mumbai, Bangalore and Delhi. So if you are planning on living by yourself, you won’t have to worry about paying very high rent. There are many paying guest accommodation options for those with budgets under Rs. 8,000 a month. You can take care of your basic accommodation needs for as low as Rs.4,000 to Rs. 8000 a month if you are renting out a room as a paying guest. You can even rent out a 1BHK apartment for as low as Rs. 8,000 a month. Rents for 1 BHK go up to even Rs. 20,000 a month – this all depends on the size and location of the apartment.

You’ll find reasonably-priced properties in areas like New Town, Gariahat, Bhawanipur, Garia, Rajarhat, Belghoria, Howrah, Kalighat, Elgin Road and Barrackpore. If you plan on sharing accommodation, you may be looking for a 2BHK, which will cost approximately Rs. 12,000 to Rs. 30,000 a month.

2. Household expenses

Household expenses usually include a maid’s and cook’s salary, building maintenance charges, electricity and internet bills, car or bike wash, as well as your grocery and food bills. Dividing these expenses can bring your expenses down every month – which is why it makes sense to share your accommodation if you are on a tight budget. These household expenses cost around Rs. 4,000 to Rs. 8,000 a month per person.

Cost of living in Kolkata: family with kids

1. Housing expenses

Moving to Kolkata as a family? If you are looking for accommodation in a 2 BHK flat, rental costs for decent apartments can be between Rs. 12,000 to Rs. 25,000 per month. The price depends on the area you choose to rent in. A home in Kolkata costs around Rs. 35 lakh onwards.

2. Household expenses

A family of four who have school-going kids will have a variety of expenses, including children’s school fees, books, clothes, entertainment and nanny salary. Additionally, you will have monthly costs such as a cook, a maid, apartment maintenance charges, electricity and internet bills, car or bike wash, grocery bills and food bills. This can cost between Rs. 20,000 and Rs. 30,000 per month for the whole family.

Cost of living in Kolkata: couples

1. Housing expenses

The rent that you have to pay for a home is linked to the square footage of the place and the area where it is located. For an average 1 BHK flat in Kolkata, expect to pay around Rs. 8,000 to Rs. 10,000 each month for rent. When buying property, its cost will depend on the area of the flat, amenities and the location. A 1BHK costs about Rs. 35 lakh in a decent area. In more expensive areas, this can go to over Rs. 60 lakhs.

2. Household expenses

Expenses monthly for a couple should cost around Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 20,000 per month. This is taking into account costs for house help such as a cook and maid, building maintenance charges, electricity and internet bills, car/bike wash, grocery bills and food bills.

How much do things cost in Kolkata

Let’s take a look into the costs of everyday necessities in Kolkata to get an approximate of how much it costs to live here.

1. Accommodation costs in Kolkata

Accommodation costs will depend on the size of your apartment, how many bedrooms and bathrooms it has, its maintenance as well as the area in which it is located.

A 2BHK in Kolkata costs around Rs. 12,000 onwards a month to rent. This does not count in the security deposit and monthly maintenance you may have to pay. Here is an overview of the rents in Kolkata:

1 BHK: Rs. 4,000 – Rs. 12,000
2 BHK: Rs. 12,000 – Rs. 25,000
3 BHK: Rs. 25,000 – Rs. 40,000

2. Commuting costs in Kolkata

Kolkata has a good public transport system. You can hop on a public bus – there are air conditioned ones too – which ply throughout the city. You can even catch a metro train to take you across the city. The old-fashioned trams still run on some routes if you’d like a bit of nostalgia with your commute.

If you are taking a taxi in Kolkata, you can choose from their iconic yellow Ambassador taxis that can be hailed from the road or you can book an Ola or Uber taxi through an app. The traditional taxis charge by the metre and fares usually start at Rs. 30, with an increase of Rs. 3 rupees every 200 metres after the first 2 kilometres are done.

Uber and Ola taxi fares are usually around Rs. 50 for pickup with an additional fare of Rs. 63, and then Rs. 8-9 per kilometre. Rickshaws are available at a base fare or around Rs. 10. These rickshaws generally travel fixed routes and are shared. So you’ll be paying just for your seat and will have to make sure the driver is going in the direction of your destination. Buses in Kolkata operate in the same way and once you know your route, it is an economical way to get around.

On average, you can expect transport to cost you between Rs. 2,000 and Rs.4,000 monthly if using your own vehicle. If you have a bike or scooter, expect to spend around Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 1,500 per month. Those who choose public transport typically spend Rs. 500 to Rs. 1,000 a month.

3. Utilities costs in Kolkata

The costs for electricity, water and garbage handling on residential properties in Kolkata costs between Rs 1,500 and 5,000 per month.

Also take into account other monthly costs such as mobile phone bills, internet bills and gas. This can be estimated at around Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 4,000 per month.

4. Childcare and school fees in Kolkata

The cost of childcare and school fees depends on the type of daycare or school your child goes to. Preschools start at Rs 2,000 per month. International board schools cost more, with fees going up to Rs 10,000 a month for preschool. Here’s an estimate of school fees in Kolkata.

Preschool or Kindergarten, monthly: Rs. 2000 to Rs. 10,000
Primary Schools, monthly: Rs. 7,000 to Rs. 10,000
International Primary School, Yearly: Rs. 50,000 lakh to Rs. 2 lakh

5. Grocery costs in Kolkata

If you are in Kolkata, you can’t miss going to the old Market which sells everything from books and flowers to vegetables, local milk products and bakery items. There are many great markets in the city to explore and buy groceries. Kolkata can be less costly for food items than metros like Delhi and Mumbai. Cooking at home will cost you around Rs. 1,500 – 3,000 per month in grocery bills.

6. Eating out costs in Kolkata

Kolkata is known for its spectacular street food culture where you can get delicious delicacies at extremely economical prices. There is also a wide selection of new high-end and old iconic restaurants filled with delicious food and history. You can get a meal for as little as Rs. 25 at a roadside vendor or treat yourself at one of the many great restaurants. The city is known for its seafood dishes as well as vegetarian food. At around Rs. 500 to Rs. 3,000 a month, you can sample a plethora of Kolkata’s treats, whatever your budget may be.

A year ago, when the pandemic hit and the world was living by the ideology of ‘stay home, stay safe’, MyGate worked tirelessly towards making societies safer. We developed Comprehensive Covid Management features to enhance the safety of gated communities during the pandemic.

Today, exactly a year later with the onset of the second wave of COVID, it’s important we do not slack. Management Committees across the country continue to use these features to keep their societies safe.

Let’s learn about these features in detail:

Temperature & Mask Checks
Security guards can conduct and capture mask and body temperature checks, using a thermal gun on the app. If either of the conditions aren’t met, the visitor is denied entry.

Quarantine at Home: Using this feature, society admins can identify and mark the flats where people are in quarantine for a specific time period. Admins can also relay the same information to the stakeholders associated with the management of these flats and limit exposure.

Leave at Gate: Leave at Gate enables societies to facilitate completely contactless, secure, and hassle-free delivery management. Residents will be able to choose to leave their delivery at the gate. All they need to do to collect their parcel is share a code with the guard.

Resident Entry/Exit Log: Using this feature, societies can restrict/record entry of visitors to aid contact tracing efforts. Admins can record logs, trace back if needed, and take proactive steps in case of an emergency.

Security Alert: If there is an emergency at home or in the society, residents can raise an alarm to their family and friends, including the ones who are not MyGate users, and the main gate security. The residents will be notified if someone is coming for help.

Society Polls & Surveys: Admins can now encourage digital decision-making. They can conduct society elections & surveys online on the app to make it easier for the residents to cast their votes and get instant feedback.

Vendor at Gate: Using this feature, societies can set up notifications for the arrival of vendors on the app. This helps society residents stay informed each time a local vendor with daily essentials arrives at the gate.   

SPO2 Readings: Security guards can now capture the oxygen levels of residents, visitors, and service providers entering the society (using a pulse oximeter) on the app. The entry-exit reports can be checked and monitored by the admin for future discretion.

If your society’s basement turns into a swimming pool every monsoon, you’re not alone. Urban flooding is no longer an occasional inconvenience, it’s a recurring problem across major Indian cities. According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), while natural causes like extreme rainfall and storms play a role, most urban floods are driven by human factors such as poor drainage systems, encroachments, and lack of maintenance.

For societies, the basement is often the first space to flood. Water creeps in, damages vehicles, affects electrical systems, and weakens the structural integrity of buildings. So while the city works on large-scale flood prevention, here’s what you can do as a resident or RWA member to protect your basement from flooding.

1. Installing and maintaining a sump pump

A sump pump is your most reliable ally when it comes to basement flooding. It works by collecting water in a pit (or sump) and pumping it out through a pipe to a storm drain or soak pit. In India, especially in flood-prone zones like Mumbai, Chennai, or Gurugram, sump pumps are common in newer buildings.

Choose an automatic sump pump with a battery backup, so it keeps running even during power cuts. Regular maintenance is a must—clean the pit, remove debris, and ensure the valve and float switch aren’t jammed. You can also add a water level sensor or alarm to alert security in case water starts accumulating.

2. Choosing the right waterproofing method

If your society hasn’t waterproofed its basement, it’s time to act. One of the most widely used techniques is box-type waterproofing. This involves laying limestone slabs (often Shahabad stone), grouting, and sealing joints with integral plasticizers. It typically costs ₹25 to ₹40 per square foot and takes 7 to 15 days for proper curing.

Other options include crystalline waterproofing, which grows water-resistant crystals within the concrete, and liquid membrane waterproofing, which is applied with a brush or roller. Some societies also waterproof exterior walls to stop moisture before it enters the structure.

3. Adding a backwater valve to prevent sewage backup

One of the most dangerous forms of basement flooding happens when rainwater overwhelms city drains and causes sewage to flow backward into homes. To prevent this, a backwater valve can be installed on the basement drainage line. It automatically closes when water tries to flow the wrong way, keeping your basement free from contaminated water.

This is especially useful for older societies where the sewer system isn’t separated from stormwater lines.

4. Keeping your drainage system clean and functional

Flooding often starts with something as simple as a blocked drain. Make it a routine to clean roof gutters, stormwater outlets, and basement floor drains at least twice a year—ideally before and after the monsoon. Ensure downspouts and drainpipes are not clogged with dry leaves or waste.

Also, check where your basement drains lead. Some are connected to the sewer system, while others might link to a sump pit. Either way, regular maintenance is the best preventive step.

5. Redirecting rainwater through harvesting and landscaping

Rainwater harvesting not just recharges groundwater but also helps prevent flooding. By redirecting rooftop runoff to soak pits or recharge wells, you reduce water pressure around the building foundation.

In your society premises, you can also design swales or rain gardens. These shallow, landscaped depressions help absorb rainwater and reduce surface runoff. You can connect the roof or terrace downspouts directly to them, or extend the piping away from the basement to these collection zones.

6. Creating gentle slopes and adding flood barriers

Many societies retrofit their parking areas and basement entries with flood prevention features. This can include small ramps or flood humps that create a barrier at the entry point. These can deflect rainwater or reduce the volume that enters.

Additionally, check that the surrounding landscape gently slopes away from the building so water naturally drains outward.

7. Taking preventive steps to protect your car

Cars parked in flooded basements often suffer long-term damage. One basic way to reduce this is by disconnecting the battery and elevating the car on a jack if water starts seeping in. Cover the vehicle with a tarpaulin sheet to prevent water from reaching the engine and interiors.

If your society regularly faces this issue, consider adding parking platforms or raised concrete pads. Some societies have also installed wheel ramps with a central flood hump to protect multiple vehicles.

8. Inspecting and repairing weak spots before the rains

Don’t wait for water to enter your basement to look for cracks and leaks. Before the monsoon, get a structural inspection done. Look out for cracks, mold, damp spots, peeling paint, rusted steel, and signs of water seepage on walls and floors.

It’s best to have a professional conduct this inspection so you don’t miss weak points like the rooftop, building corners, or pipe junctions. Catching and repairing these early reduces the chance of structural damage later.

9. Understanding your insurance coverage

Most homeowners and RWAs in India are not aware that standard property insurance often doesn’t cover flood damage unless specifically added. Make sure your personal home insurance includes flood or water damage clauses.

RWAs can also purchase society-level building insurance that includes basement areas, electrical panels, and common amenities. This can make a big difference in post-flood recovery costs.

10.Knowing when to call the professionals

If your basement does get flooded, especially with water mixed with sewage, don’t attempt to clean it yourself. Such water may contain pathogens, bacteria, and chemical residue. Instead, alert your municipal water department or call a licensed flood restoration contractor.

Also, ensure that the electricity to the flooded area is switched off before anyone enters.

Your quick checklist to stay flood-ready

• Install and test sump pumps with battery backup

• Clean drains, spouts, and floor traps before every monsoon

• Waterproof basement floors and walls

• Add a backwater valve to prevent sewage backup

• Build gentle slopes and flood humps at basement entry points

• Create rain gardens or recharge pits for excess rainwater

• Check and repair structural damage early

• Raise parked vehicles or install flood barriers

• Confirm insurance covers flood-related damage

• Avoid entering flooded areas and always call professionals

In these chaotic times, it has become vital to adopt all the necessary steps to combat the threat of COVID-19 early on. MyGate recognises the need to keep the virus at bay, which is why we have introduced comprehensive COVID management features including temperature and mask checks at gate, containment zone identification, security alert and much more. 

In an effort to make your society safer during this pandemic, one of our key initiatives has been to integrate the Aarogya Setu App with the guard device. 

How does the integration work?

We have integrated the Aarogya Setu app on the guard device so that security personnel can assess the risk of letting in a visitor. Any visitor or service provider can share their status with a simple QR code scan of the Aarogya Setu app using the guard device – low, moderate, high or COVID-19 positive. 

How does this help?

This integration is aimed at helping societies reopen their society gates to visitors cautiously, as the pandemic rages on across the country. Societies with a large number of residents can better monitor the movement at the gate, identify asymptomatic carriers entering the society and attend to any security breaches. 

Aarogya Setu integration is now live in all MyGate societies.

*MyGate cannot capture the location or travel history of the visitor with this scan. 

The number of people who are quarantined in their homes is increasing. In the case of housing societies, the guards have no clear mechanism to access this information and act accordingly. This is why Mygate has built the Quarantine at Home feature under Comprehensive Covid Management for Communities.

Here’s how societies will benefit from this feature:

• Committee members can easily identify, mark, and manage the flats where residents are in quarantine for a specific time period.
• Committee members can relay this information to guards and concerned residents via guard app and resident app respectively.
• Residents in quarantine are notified when a flat is marked on the admin dashboard. 
• Guards can see this information on the guard app (flats are marked in yellow) when they are creating an entry.

Let’s understand the changes we have introduced across our systems. Since every society has its own set of regulations around quarantine implementation, we have not altered the visitor and service provider access flow.

Admin Dashboard

Here’s how Admins can mark a flat in quarantine for a specific time period.

1. Manage Society > Manage Flats > Select Flat > Mark Flat as Quarantine

2. Fill in the flat details, add the reason/emergency contact, and quarantine start and end dates. Admins can choose the start and end dates as per their SOP.

3. Next, admins can filter flats based on “Quarantine Status”

Residents who are in quarantine can also reach out to the nearest hospital, ambulance services, pharmacy, main gate security, or any committee member, using the Emergency Numbers provided on the Mygate app.

Resident App

1. Residents will receive a notification and an activity card will be created as per the following changes:

a. A flat is marked as a quarantined flat:
– Notification: “Your flat has been quarantined”
b. The quarantine period of a flat is modified:
– Notification: “Your Quarantine period has been changed”
c. The quarantine period of flat ends:
– Notification: “Your Quarantine period has ended”

2. Residents can know if their house-help is working or has worked in a quarantined flat.

3. Residents will have a list of quarantined flats handy on the app.

Guard App

Once a flat is marked as a quarantined flat, it is highlighted in yellow during entry on the guard app. This is to ensure the guard knows that the residents in a particular flat are in quarantine and can act according to the society protocol for handling visitors, service providers, or parcel entries.

This feature is Live across all Mygate societies. For any concerns, the Management Committee can reach out to their respective Mygate representatives and if you are a resident, please contact your Management Committee.

National Updates

Quarantine relaxations for international travellers

• Travellers to India with a COVID negative report no older than 96 hours may skip institutional quarantine, and instead quarantine at home for 14 days
• Exemption may also be granted in special cases, for compelling reasons, such as the death in the family, serious illness, pregnancy or if parents are travelling with children under the age of 10.
• Source: Ministry of Health & Family Welfare

Unlock 3.0

• Yoga institutes and gymnasiums are permitted, starting August 5, 2020
• Independence Day functions permitted, with social distancing in place and wearing of masks
• Removal of night curfew
• Lockdown to remain in force in containment zones until August 31, 2020
• Social gatherings remain prohibited, with marriage related gatherings capped at 50 persons and funerals at 20 persons
• Source: Ministry of Home Affairs

Important numbers in your city

National Helplines
WhatApp	9013151515
Emergencies	112
Ministry of Health & Family Welfare	1075 or 011-23978046
City Helplines
Andhra Pradesh	0866-2410978
Delhi	011-22307145
Gujarat	104
Haryana	8558893911
Karnataka	104
Kerala	0471-2552056
Maharashtra	020-26127394
Punjab	104
Rajasthan	0141-2225624
Tamil Nadu	044-29510500
Telangana	104
Uttar Pradesh	18001805145
West Bengal	033-23412600