Teach English in India: Financial Snapshot

Modern banking facilities are widespread in India, and the cost of living can vary depending on your location. The cost of living in India tends to be higher in large metropolitan areas than in smaller towns or rural areas. In general, the cost of living in India can be considered very economical by North American standards.

Banking in India
Expected Apartment Costs in India
Food Costs in India

Banking in India

India was one the first nations in the world that offered banking as it is recognized today to its citizens; thus, today’s financial world is full of Indian-based banks. ATM machines can be found throughout most major Indian cities and many businesses (especially those that cater towards tourists) will have debit machines. Banking hours in India are typically shorter than those in America: banks usually open in mid-morning, closing in the mid-afternoon. Some ESL teachers may choose to bring travellers checks to India, although this method is quite outdated. Instead, most major credit and debit cards can be used in India, though it's a good idea to check this with your bank beforehand, and also to inform your bank you will be going overseas so your international usage does not get flagged as suspicious.

Expected Apartment Costs in India

Defining the cost of an apartment in India can be a difficult task. An apartment in a larger city such as Mumbai, Delhi, or Bangalore will cost more to rent than a space in a smaller city or rural location. Renting an apartment in a central location of an urban area will also add a few rupees to the cost of living space as opposed to renting in a more remote area of the city. Another variable that can change the affordability of an apartment is its size and what appliances or furniture are included. A one bedroom apartment suitable for a teacher can be found between 9,000 INR and 15,000 INR, depending on location and proximity to city centers.

Food Costs in India

Below is a list of common grocery items which can be purchased in India:

• 1L of milk - 55 INR
• Loaf of fresh white bread  - 39 INR
• Inexpensive restaurant meal - 200 INR
• Mid-range restaurant meal for 2 - 1,000 INR
• 1 kilo of tomatoes - 42 INR
• 1 kilo of rice - 56 INR
• 1 kilo of bananas - 52 INR

Other East Asia / Southeast Asia Countries: