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Cost of Living in Varkala

By Joshua Wood, LPC

SJB Global
SJB Global

Summary: Understanding the the cost of living in Varkala helps a newcomer what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.

Apartment Rentals Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Varkala is around Rs. 8,000-10,000 per month. Rent for a three-bedroom apartment in the city center is around Rs. 15,000-20,000 per month. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center is around Rs. 5,000-7,000 per month. Rent for a three-bedroom apartment outside the city center is around Rs. 10,000-15,000 per month.
Apartment Purchases The cost of purchasing an apartment in Varkala varies depending on the size and location. Prices for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center range from Rs. 25 lakhs to Rs. 40 lakhs. Prices for a three-bedroom apartment in the city center range from Rs. 50 lakhs to Rs. 80 lakhs. Prices for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center range from Rs. 15 lakhs to Rs. 25 lakhs. Prices for a three-bedroom apartment outside the city center range from Rs. 30 lakhs to Rs. 50 lakhs.
Transportation The cost of transportation in Varkala is relatively low. A one-way ticket on the local bus costs around Rs. 10-15. A one-way ticket on the train costs around Rs. 20-30. A one-way ticket on the auto-rickshaw costs around Rs. 20-30. A one-way ticket on the taxi costs around Rs. 50-100.
Groceries The cost of groceries in Varkala is relatively low. A kilogram of rice costs around Rs. 30-40. A kilogram of potatoes costs around Rs. 20-30. A kilogram of onions costs around Rs. 20-30. A liter of milk costs around Rs. 40-50. A dozen eggs costs around Rs. 50-60.
Restaurants The cost of eating out in Varkala is relatively low. A meal at a local restaurant costs around Rs. 100-200. A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around Rs. 300-500. A meal at a high-end restaurant costs around Rs. 500-1000.
Utilities The cost of utilities in Varkala is relatively low. The average monthly cost for electricity is around Rs. 500-1000. The average monthly cost for water is around Rs. 100-200. The average monthly cost for internet is around Rs. 500-1000.
Private School Tuition The cost of private school tuition in Varkala varies depending on the school. The average annual tuition for preschool is around Rs. 50,000-60,000. The average annual tuition for elementary school is around Rs. 70,000-80,000. The average annual tuition for middle school is around Rs. 90,000-1,00,000. The average annual tuition for high school is around Rs. 1,20,000-1,50,000.

Can I live in Varkala on $1,500 a month?

"I've been living in Varkala for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $1,500 a month, especially if you're used to modern amenities. However, you might have to make a few sacrifices to make it work. For example, you might not be able to dine out at fancy restaurants or go on expensive excursions every weekend. But overall, the in Varkala is quite affordable, and you can still enjoy a good quality of life on a budget.When it comes to finding a place to live, I'd recommend looking for a rental in neighborhoods like North Cliff or Varkala Beach. These areas are popular among expats and offer a good mix of affordability and modern amenities. You can find a decent apartment or house for around $300 to $500 a month, depending on the size and location. Just make sure to negotiate the rent, as landlords are usually open to bargaining.On the other hand, I'd avoid neighborhoods like South Cliff or Papanasam Beach, as they tend to be more expensive and cater to tourists. The cost of living in these areas can be significantly higher, so it might not be the best option if you're trying to stick to a budget.In terms of transportation, you can save money by using public transport like buses and auto-rickshaws, which are quite cheap and reliable. Alternatively, you can rent a scooter or motorcycle for around $50 to $100 a month, which will give you more freedom to explore the area.Groceries and eating out can also be quite affordable in Varkala. You can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and other essentials at local markets for a fraction of the price you'd pay in Western countries. And while you might not be able to afford dining at high-end restaurants every day, there are plenty of budget-friendly options like street food stalls and local eateries where you can enjoy delicious Indian cuisine for just a few dollars.In terms of entertainment and leisure activities, there are plenty of things to do in Varkala that won't break the bank. You can spend your days exploring the beautiful beaches, visiting local temples, or taking yoga classes at one of the many studios in town. And if you're craving some Western-style entertainment, there are a few bars and clubs where you can enjoy a night out without spending a fortune.Overall, living in Varkala on $1,500 a month is definitely doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices to make it work. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, using public transport, and enjoying the many low-cost activities available, you can still have a comfortable and enjoyable life in this beautiful Indian town," commented an expat living in Varkala.

Can I live in Varkala on $3,500 a month?

"I've been living in Varkala for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, especially if you're used to modern amenities. However, there might be a few sacrifices you'll have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you'll need to choose a neighborhood that's affordable but still offers the amenities you're used to. I'd recommend looking into areas like North Cliff or Varkala Town, where you can find decent accommodation at a reasonable price. You might have to compromise on the size of your living space, but you'll still be able to find a comfortable apartment or house within your budget.On the other hand, I'd avoid neighborhoods like South Cliff or the more touristy areas near the beach, as these tend to be more expensive and might not offer the same value for money.When it comes to transportation, you might have to rely more on public transport like buses and auto-rickshaws, as owning a car can be quite expensive in India. However, public transport is quite affordable and efficient, so it shouldn't be too much of an issue.Eating out can also be quite affordable if you stick to local restaurants and street food, which are not only delicious but also easy on the wallet. However, if you prefer dining at more upscale restaurants or international chains, you might have to cut back on how often you eat out to stay within your budget.Another thing to consider is that while most modern amenities are available in Varkala, they might not always be up to the same standard as you're used to. For example, internet speeds can be slower, and power outages are more common. However, these are minor inconveniences that you'll likely get used to over time.Overall, living in Varkala on $3,000 a month is definitely doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and be willing to make a few sacrifices. That being said, the beautiful surroundings, friendly locals, and rich culture more than make up for any compromises you might have to make," said one expat living in Varkala.

Can I live in Varkala on $5,000 a month?

"I've been living in Varkala for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, especially if you're used to modern amenities. In fact, you might even find that you can enjoy a higher standard of living here than you would in many Western countries. However, there are some sacrifices you'll need to make in order to make it work.Firstly, you'll need to adjust to the local culture and way of life. This might mean getting used to the heat, the traffic, and the sometimes chaotic nature of daily life in India. You'll also need to be prepared to deal with occasional power outages and water shortages, which can be frustrating if you're used to a more reliable infrastructure.In terms of housing, you'll find that there are plenty of options available to you in Varkala. If you're looking for something more affordable, you might want to consider neighborhoods like Edava or Kappil, where you can find decent apartments or houses for rent at reasonable prices. On the other hand, if you're willing to spend a bit more, you could look into more upscale neighborhoods like Varkala Cliff or Papanasam Beach, where you'll find more luxurious accommodations with modern amenities.When it comes to food, you'll have a wide variety of options to choose from, ranging from local street food to more upscale restaurants. Eating out can be quite affordable, but if you prefer to cook at home, you'll need to adjust to the local ingredients and learn how to prepare Indian dishes. Imported goods can be more expensive, so you might need to make some sacrifices in terms of your usual grocery shopping habits.Transportation is another area where you'll need to make some adjustments. While public transportation is available, it can be crowded and unreliable at times. Many expats choose to hire a driver or use taxis and auto-rickshaws to get around, which can be more convenient but also more expensive than using public transport.Overall, living in Varkala on $5,000 a month is definitely doable, but you'll need to be prepared to make some sacrifices and adjust to the local way of life. If you're willing to do that, you'll find that you can enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling life in this beautiful coastal town," commented an expat living in Varkala.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.


SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB Global
SJB Global

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