THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kochi has been ranked 15th among the most expensive cities in India to live in, with a middle-class individual’s cost of living pegged at ₹27,265.5 for the month of March. In comparison, Thiruvananthapuram’s cost of living is slightly lower at ₹26,445, reflecting a 3.3% reduction.

An international private agency recently conducted a survey across 19 cities, with the national average cost of living calculated at ₹29,102.4. Economic experts in Kerala attribute the state’s rising living costs to its increasing shift towards a consumer-driven economy.

Despite having only 2.7% of India's total population, Kerala accounts for over 10% of the country’s consumption of goods and services, as per the 2011 Census.

Survey Methodology: The survey assessed the cost of living based on various factors, including food, groceries, fruits, vegetables, transportation, utilities (electricity and water), internet services, mobile recharges, fitness club memberships, education expenses, clothing, footwear, house rent, property costs, and salaries.

Cost of Living in Major Cities (INR):

Mumbai: 35,566.4

Bengaluru: 33,566

Pune: 33,338.5

New Delhi: 33,294.8

Hyderabad: 32,280.5

Ahmedabad: 32,018.6

Chennai: 31,145.1

Kolkata: 29,669.8

Bhubaneswar: 29,662.6

Surat: 29,087.8

Jaipur: 28,943.9

Chandigarh: 28,616

Kochi: 27,265.5

Coimbatore: 27,043.1

National Average: 29,102.4

Kerala’s cost of living exceeds the national average, primarily due to the state's struggles in agriculture and reduced production, leading to higher expenses. Economic expert Mary George explained, “Kerala’s economic focus has shifted towards consumption, while agricultural production has dwindled, driving up living costs.”