The Kumaon Hills in Uttarakhand are a dream for many looking for peace, nature, and a slower life. With rising interest from retirees, remote workers, and investors, it’s important to understand the real cost of living here in 2025.
In this guide, we’ll cover every major expense — housing, food, healthcare, transport, and hidden costs — so you can plan your move with confidence.
🏠 Housing Costs
Housing is one of the biggest expenses in Kumaon. The good news? It’s still much cheaper than major cities!
- Buying Property:
- Land rates: ₹300–₹5,000 per sq. ft. (depends on location and view)
- Flats: ₹25 lakh to ₹60 lakh for a 2BHK
- Independent cottages: ₹50 lakh to ₹2 crore (luxury properties)
- Renting Property:
- 1BHK apartment: ₹5,000–₹12,000/month
- 2BHK flat/house: ₹10,000–₹20,000/month
- Furnished homestays for long stays: ₹15,000–₹40,000/month
- Homestay/PG Options:
- ₹5,000–₹12,000/month (meals included sometimes)
🍲 Food and Groceries
Food costs can vary based on your lifestyle. Local produce is fresh and affordable.
- Monthly Grocery Costs:
- For a single person: ₹3,000–₹5,000
- For a family of four: ₹8,000–₹12,000
- Eating Out:
- Local dhaba meal: ₹80–₹200 per person
- Mid-range restaurant meal: ₹300–₹700 per person
- High-end tourist restaurants: ₹800–₹1,500 per person
- Specialty/Organic Foods:
- Organic vegetables and grains: 20%-30% higher than local markets
💡 Utilities and Internet
Utilities are affordable but slightly higher during winters due to heating needs.
- Electricity:
- Average monthly bill: ₹800–₹2,500
- Heating in winter can increase it to ₹3,500+
- Water Supply:
- ₹100–₹300/month (government supply)
- Internet and Mobile:
- Broadband internet: ₹600–₹1,200/month
- Mobile data plans: ₹250–₹500/month
- Gas/Heating:
- LPG cylinder: ₹1,100 approx.
- Wood for heating (if needed): ₹3,000–₹5,000 for winter season
🚗 Transportation Costs
Public transport is available but owning a vehicle is more convenient in the hills.
- Fuel Costs:
- Petrol/Diesel: ₹92–₹100/litre (slightly higher than plains)
- Vehicle Maintenance:
- Annual servicing: ₹4,000–₹7,000
- Tyre replacements, hill-specific repairs: occasional extra costs
- Public Transport:
- Shared taxi ride: ₹30–₹100 depending on distance
- Bus fare: ₹20–₹200
- Owning vs Renting a Vehicle:
- Renting a private cab for local travel: ₹2,000–₹4,000/day
🏥 Healthcare Expenses
Basic healthcare is affordable and accessible, though specialized treatment may require travel to bigger cities.
- Doctor Consultation:
- General physician: ₹200–₹500 per visit
- Specialist: ₹500–₹1,000 per visit
- Medicines:
- Common medicines cost: ₹200–₹1,000/month
- Hospitals:
- Government hospitals: nominal fees
- Private clinics: moderate charges
- Emergency Services:
- Ambulance service: ₹1,000–₹2,500 (depends on distance)
🏫 Education and Childcare (Optional for families)
For those relocating with kids, Kumaon offers schooling options though not as many as cities.
- School Fees:
- Government schools: nominal fees
- Private schools: ₹1,500–₹5,000/month
- Extra Costs:
- Transport, tuition classes, books: ₹1,000–₹3,000/month
🛍️ Lifestyle and Entertainment
You won’t find malls everywhere, but life is still full of leisure!
- Shopping:
- Local markets are cheap and colorful
- Occasional branded shopping = travel to bigger towns like Haldwani
- Fitness:
- Gyms: ₹1,000–₹2,500/month
- Yoga classes: ₹500–₹1,500/month
- Tourist Activities:
- Local sightseeing: free to minimal cost
- Adventure sports: ₹500–₹2,500 per activity
📈 Hidden or Seasonal Costs
Be prepared for these extra, occasional expenses:
- Heating Costs in Winter:
- ₹2,000–₹5,000/month extra (electricity, wood, heaters)
- Property Maintenance:
- Annual maintenance for second homes: ₹10,000–₹50,000
- Seasonal Food Variations:
- Vegetables and fruits can get expensive in extreme winters.
📊 Cost of Living Table — 2025 (Approximate Monthly)
| Expense Category | Single Person (₹) | Family of 4 (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent) | 6,000 – 15,000 | 12,000 – 20,000 |
| Food & Groceries | 3,000 – 5,000 | 8,000 – 12,000 |
| Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet) | 2,000 – 4,000 | 3,000 – 5,500 |
| Transportation (Own Vehicle + Fuel) | 2,000 – 4,000 | 5,000 – 8,000 |
| Healthcare | 500 – 1,500 | 1,000 – 3,000 |
| Entertainment & Lifestyle | 1,000 – 2,500 | 2,500 – 5,000 |
| Total Estimated | 14,500 – 32,000 | 31,500 – 53,500 |
📝 Conclusion
Living in the Kumaon Hills is a refreshing change — both for the soul and the wallet!
Whether you’re looking to retire, work remotely, or simply live closer to nature, the cost of living here in 2025 remains affordable compared to urban India.
Careful planning and a flexible lifestyle can make Kumaon a truly wonderful home. 🌿🏡
If you’re ready to find your dream home or investment property in Kumaon, check out our listings at KumaonPlanner.com!
