Trivandrum, officially known as Thiruvananthapuram, is the capital of Kerala, India’s southernmost state. This coastal city is rapidly becoming a favored destination for expats, digital nomads, and retirees alike. With its blend of rich cultural heritage, scenic beaches, and modern infrastructure, many are drawn to the tranquil lifestyle it offers. But what does it actually cost to live in Trivandrum? In this guide, we break down the real cost of living in Trivandrum for expats, covering housing, food, transportation, healthcare, education, and lifestyle.
🏡 Housing Costs in Trivandrum
Rental costs in Trivandrum are remarkably low compared to major Indian cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, or Delhi. Whether you’re seeking a fully furnished apartment, an independent villa, or a modest studio, there are options for every budget.
- 1 BHK apartment in city center: ₹12,000 – ₹18,000/month
- 1 BHK outside city center: ₹7,000 – ₹10,000/month
- 3 BHK apartment in city center: ₹25,000 – ₹40,000/month
- 3 BHK outside city center: ₹15,000 – ₹25,000/month
- Furnished villa with garden (expat standard): ₹35,000 – ₹60,000/month
Most rentals do not include utilities, and electricity bills can vary depending on air conditioner usage. For a moderate household, monthly utilities (electricity, water, gas, garbage) typically range between ₹2,500 to ₹4,000.
🍛 Food & Grocery Costs
Trivandrum is a paradise for food lovers. The cost of groceries is affordable, especially if you shop at local markets. For expats preferring imported products, specialty stores are available but at higher prices.
- Milk (1 liter): ₹50
- Bread (500g loaf): ₹40
- Rice (1 kg): ₹60
- Eggs (12): ₹70
- Chicken (1 kg): ₹180
- Vegetables (1 kg assorted): ₹40 – ₹70
- Fruits (1 kg assorted): ₹60 – ₹100
Dining out is also budget-friendly:
- Local meal (veg thali): ₹60 – ₹120
- Meal at mid-range restaurant (2 people): ₹600 – ₹1,200
- Fine dining experience: ₹2,000+
🚌 Transportation Costs
Public transport in Trivandrum is efficient and inexpensive. The city is well-connected with buses, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cab services like Uber and Ola.
- Local bus fare: ₹10 – ₹25
- Auto-rickshaw (short ride): ₹40 – ₹80
- Uber/Ola (within city): ₹100 – ₹250
- Monthly public transport pass: ₹700
If you choose to own a vehicle, a new scooter costs around ₹90,000 and a sedan around ₹8–12 lakhs. Monthly fuel costs average ₹2,500 – ₹4,000, depending on usage.
🏥 Healthcare & Insurance
Trivandrum boasts world-class hospitals such as KIMS Health, Ananthapuri Hospital, and Sree Uthradom Thirunal Hospital. Medical care is not only high in quality but affordable.
- Doctor consultation (private clinic): ₹300 – ₹600
- Specialist consultation: ₹800 – ₹1,500
- Dental cleaning: ₹600 – ₹1,200
- Health insurance premium (expat plan): ₹15,000 – ₹40,000/year
Expats are advised to invest in comprehensive health insurance. International plans are accepted at most leading hospitals.
🎓 Education Costs
For families relocating with children, Trivandrum has a wide range of international and English-medium schools.
- International schools (IB/IGCSE): ₹1.2 – ₹3 lakhs/year
- Private Indian curriculum schools (CBSE/ICSE): ₹60,000 – ₹1.5 lakhs/year
- Preschools: ₹25,000 – ₹60,000/year
Top institutions include The Oxford School, Trivandrum International School, and Loyola School. Many schools offer bus transport and extracurricular programs.
📶 Internet & Mobile Plans
Staying connected in Trivandrum is both easy and affordable. The city has reliable fiber optic internet and widespread 4G coverage.
- Fiber internet (100–200 Mbps): ₹700 – ₹1,200/month
- Mobile prepaid plan (30 GB/month): ₹300 – ₹500
- Postpaid unlimited plan: ₹799 – ₹999/month
Major providers include Jio, Airtel, and BSNL. Home internet installations are quick and customer service is generally responsive.
🛍️ Shopping & Entertainment
Trivandrum features a growing number of malls, supermarkets, and entertainment zones like Lulu Mall, Mall of Travancore, and Central Mall.
- Gym membership: ₹1,000 – ₹2,500/month
- Movie ticket (multiplex): ₹150 – ₹300
- Shopping (monthly clothing budget): ₹2,000 – ₹5,000
- Yoga/Wellness classes: ₹1,500 – ₹3,000/month
The city also offers cultural experiences, art galleries, traditional dance shows, and beautiful beaches like Kovalam and Varkala, all within a short drive.
👷 Cost of Domestic Help
Many expats choose to hire domestic help, which is both common and affordable.
- Full-time maid (live-out): ₹6,000 – ₹10,000/month
- Cook (2 meals daily): ₹4,000 – ₹7,000/month
- Driver: ₹8,000 – ₹12,000/month
- Nanny (qualified): ₹7,000 – ₹12,000/month
These services are widely available and often come with references or via agencies.
🌴 Lifestyle & Leisure
Trivandrum offers a laid-back, coastal lifestyle with access to stunning nature, Ayurveda retreats, and friendly locals. Monthly lifestyle costs vary depending on preferences, but for a comfortable expat lifestyle, one can expect:
- Basic lifestyle: ₹35,000 – ₹50,000/month
- Mid-range lifestyle: ₹50,000 – ₹80,000/month
- Luxury lifestyle: ₹1 lakh+/month
This includes rent, groceries, eating out, and moderate leisure spending.
Why Trivandrum is a Smart Choice for Expats
With its affordable cost of living, vibrant culture, excellent healthcare, and stunning coastline, Trivandrum stands out as a top-tier destination for expats in India. Whether you’re retiring, working remotely, or relocating with your family, the city offers a unique mix of tranquility and modern convenience.