You have spent your youthful years responsibly by taking care of your family, performing exceptionally at work and saving up enough to enjoy a peaceful retirement. Additionally, you are trained and educated for the race of life, be it planning your career, family or vacation. However, one hardly emphasizes retirement and how to prepare it properly. However, it’s not too late. You can start planning right away with a little help below. Here we have the ten best places to retire in India; 2020 edition!
Why Should You Retire in India?
India’s population has been steadily rising, along with the number of elderly residents. Therefore this country has enough data to provide you with the perfect retirement spot, depending on your monthly disposable income and standards of living.
We know you like to be ahead of the game. So why not use your strategic skills to plan out the perfect retirement life? Here are a few factors you need to consider to make an informed decision. Your permanent retirement haven should ideally be close to family and friends because of security and emotional needs. Additionally, it should offer excellent healthcare, affordable living, decent transportation, a peaceful environment and more.
10 Best Places to Retire in India: 2023
Find the perfect retreat after those busy years. Here are the ten best places to retire and live in India.
1. Mumbai: Best City to Retire in India
Mumbai is a fantastic abode for those who love to bask in a youthful ball of energy since it is rightfully known as ‘the city which never sleeps. As a result, in this city, you will often find the sea shoreline brimming with life as people of all ages come together to chat, share a meal and enjoy windy evenings. Moreover, you will come across people out for a stroll at 3 am! The nightlife here is cheerful and entire families step out to have a good time come Fridays. As a result, age is absolutely no bar at the clubs lined up in the streets of this city which makes Mumbai among the best places in India to live and retire.
- Monthly Rent: 35k to 65k for a 2-3 BHK flat
- Property Purchase Cost: 5+ Cr for a villa or a bungalow
- Air Quality: Moderate
- Cost of Living: Very High
- Health and Safety: Safe
- Climate: Average
- Connectivity: Average
- Traffic: High
- Public Transport Facilities: Good
- Life Quality Index: Average
- Popular Real Estate Companies: Skyline Group – Real Estate Company Mumbai, Spacio Realtors & Advisors Pvt. Ltd, Fairdeal Realtors Pvt Ltd
2. Delhi: Best Place to Retire in India
Delhi is popularly known as ‘Dilwalon ki Dilli’ and similarly embraces all aspects of life. Since it is home to the hottest party spots and heritage gems, Delhi embodies the old-world and modern charms of India, giving it life and meaning. Low cost of living, transport facilities, healthcare benefits, nightlife, proximity to tourist sites, and well-connectivity to nearby suburbs including Noida, Gurugram and Faridabad, thus makes Delhi a fantastic choice. Therefore, one can conveniently live out their retirement days in this vibrant city.
- Monthly Rent: 20k to 50k for a 2-3 BHK flat
- Property Purchase Cost: 4+ Cr for a villa or a bungalow
- Air Quality: Very Bad
- Cost of Living: High
- Health and Safety: Not very Safe
- Climate: Bad (Extreme)
- Connectivity: Good
- Traffic: High
- Public Transport Facilities: Good
- Life Quality Index: Bad
- Popular Real Estate Companies: Guptasons Property Consultant – Real Estate Agent Delhi, RealEstateIndia.com, India Sotheby’s International Realty
3. Goa: Best Place to Retire in India with Beaches
Recognized for its beautiful beaches, nightlife and water sports, Goa is not just an all-year-round spot for your dream vacation. As a matter of fact, it is an ideal place for your retirement days. Ranking high in the list of 10 best places to retire in India, Goa offers a wholesome quality because of its humble and fun vibe. The nation’s hottest destination welcomes the elderly population with a fantastic cultural mix, exquisite Goan food, affordable healthcare and serene retirement colonies where you can, in fact, mingle with like-minded people for company. Check out the details below to make an informed decision.
- Median Monthly Rent: 15k to 40k for a 2-3 BHK flat
- Property Purchase Cost: 2+ Cr for a villa or a bungalow
- Air Quality: Good
- Cost of Living: Moderate
- Health and Safety: Safe
- Climate: Adjustable
- Connectivity: Bad
- Traffic: Minimum
- Public Transport Facilities: Bad
- Life Quality Index: Good
- Popular Real Estate Companies: Monteiro Spaces Real Estate Pvt Ltd, Monteiro Spaces Real Estate Pvt Ltd, Monteiro Spaces Real Estate Pvt Ltd
4. Mysore: Best Cultural City to Retire in India
Located near Silicon Valley, while Mysore has the fantastic weather of Bangalore, it doesn’t share the city’s restless urban vibe. It ranks No.1 as the cleanest city in India. It shares a piece of history adorned with monuments such as the beautiful Mysore Palace and St Philomena’s church, whose architecture was influenced by Cologne Cathedral in Germany. Also, the Tree Park at Yelwal is just ten kilometres away from the central city and is sprawled over a land of 500 acres, resting as a beautiful green cover. Hence, its natural beauty is a savoured attraction by tourists. Bengaluru being the closest city, will ensure you don’t miss the nightlife since you can board the Bengaluru-Mysore expressway and travel conveniently. Besides, here are a few more details for you to decide on.
- Monthly Rent: 15k to 30k for a 2-3 BHK flat
- Property Purchase Cost: 1.5+ Cr for a villa or a bungalow
- Air Quality: Good
- Cost of Living: Moderate
- Health and Safety: Safe
- Climate: Average
- Connectivity: Good
- Traffic: Moderate
- Public Transport Facilities: Good
- Life Quality Index: Good
- Popular Real Estate Companies: Yogesh Associate Real Estate and Developers, VB Real Estate Mysore (VB Associates) Sale, Rent, Lease, Ashraya Real Estate
5. Dehradun: Best Hillstation to Retire in India
Due to being surrounded by beautiful hills, Dehradun is one of the most favoured places to retire in India. Although urbanization is quite slow and the cost of living is relatively cheaper, the happy go lucky people of Dehradun know how to spend their time cheerfully. Because of its proximity to specific heritage destinations like Haridwar, travel junkies can opt for long journeys to heritage sites like Haridwar, an ancient city and a famous pilgrimage site that attracts people from all over India. Additionally, Rishikesh is known as the ‘Yoga Capital of the world’, located in the foothills of Himalayas. Find more details below.
- Monthly Rent: 10k to 40k for a 2-3 BHK flat
- Property Purchase Cost: 70+ LKHS for a villa or a bungalow
- Air Quality: Good
- Cost of Living: Moderate
- Health and Safety: Safe
- Climate: Average
- Connectivity: Good
- Traffic: Moderate
- Public Transport Facilities: Good
- Life Quality Index: Good
- Popular Real Estate Companies: Dehradun Real Estate, The Realtors Club (Property Consultant), Property in Dehradun – Real Estate / Property for sale in Dehradun
6. Rishikesh: Best Spiritual Place to Retire in India
The Holy land of Rishikesh is the epitome of spirituality for the eternal seeker. As a result, aspirants from all places in India and abroad have known to come here amidst nature, to retire, practice spirituality and do community work, away from all temptations of the city life. It is also a famous hub for alternative medicine including, therapies, Ayurveda, Meditation and Yoga. For adventurists, trekking, as well as gardening, are among a few options to let off some steam. Therefore, a retiree can spend his/her golden years here, building a healthy body, mind and a sense of community—finally, experienced caregivers and fantastic hospitality aid a comfortable stay.
- Monthly Rent: 15k to 30k for a 2-3 BHK flat
- Property Purchase Cost: 2+ Cr for a villa or a bungalow
- Air Quality: Good
- Cost of Living: Moderate
- Health and Safety: Safe
- Climate: Good
- Connectivity: Average
- Traffic: Average
- Public Transport Facilities: Average
- Life Quality Index: Good
- Popular Real Estate Companies: Manhar Properties, Satyam Properties, Satyam Properties
7. Pune: Best Metro City to Retire in India
Pune is a highly favoured destination. The climate, charming cafes, art fiestas, and the proximity to Mumbai make it a great place. It has recently been ranked as the most liveable city in India and the number of NRIs settled here is constantly rising.
- Monthly Rent: 20k to 40k for a 2-3 BHK flat
- Property Purchase Cost: 2+ Cr for a villa or a bungalow
- Air Quality: Good
- Cost of Living: Moderate to High
- Health and Safety: Safe
- Climate: Average
- Connectivity: Good
- Traffic: Medium
- Public Transport Facilities: Good
- Life Quality Index: Good
- Popular Real Estate Companies: The Lion’s Crew, Sairaj Real Estate Company, Full Basket Property Services Pvt Ltd
8. Dharamshala, Mcleodganj: Best Adventurous Place to Retire in India
India’s short version of Tibet, Mcleodganj is a suburb of Dharamshala and also, one of the top tourist spots among Shimla and Manali. It is also known as “Little Lhasa” or “Dhasa” and is home to a large number of Tibetans. Because of its soul-stirring delicacies, breathtaking sceneries, cultural shows, boat rides and sightseeing, this quaint town attracts adventurers and spiritual aspirants from all over the world. For this reason, many retired couples decide to stay here and pursue pleasures they never could back in urban cities. Therefore, studying the Tibetan culture & food, going to film festivals boat riding in the Dal lake, stargazing and most importantly visiting his holiness the Dalai Lama’s home is among a few must do’s that people generally add to their bucket list. Thus, by living in Dharamshala, one can experience everything intensely, at the heart of nature.
- Monthly Rent: 10k to 30k for a 2-3 BHK flat
- Property Purchase Cost: 1.5+ Cr for a villa or a bungalow
- Air Quality: Good
- Cost of Living: Moderate
- Health and Safety: Not very Safe
- Climate: Good
- Connectivity: Not Good
- Traffic: Moderate
- Public Transport Facilities: Average
- Life Quality Index: Good
- Popular Real Estate Companies: Himachal Property Bazaar, Himachal Real Estate, Anil Property
9. Coimbatore: Best Cultural Place to Retire in India
Among the best places to retire in India, Coimbatore is home to many communities. For instance, proactive healthcare facilities and pleasant climate conditions make it the third-best choice for retirees apart from Kerala and Ooty. Moreover, being the second-largest city in Tamil Nadu, Coimbatore is an industrial hub and a relatively cheaper place to own real estate, thus, making it a smarter choice to live. It is also home to heritage temples, exquisite waterfalls and mountains where pensioners can find peace and adventure.
- Monthly Rent: 20k to 60k for a 2-3 BHK flat
- Property Purchase Cost: 2.5+ Cr for a villa or a bungalow
- Air Quality: Good
- Cost of Living: High
- Health and Safety: Very Safe
- Climate: Good
- Connectivity: Good
- Traffic: Moderate
- Public Transport Facilities: Good
- Life Quality Index: Excellent
- Popular Real Estate Companies: Hanu Reddy Realty India Private Limited, Annai Realty, Indian Realestate Online
10. Chandigarh: Best Urban City to Retire in India
Chandigarh easily tops the list of the 10 best places to retire in India. Firstly, smart urban planning and a proper balance with nature is the strength of this city. Secondly, retirees with family and friends in Delhi can often visit their loved ones in the city, as public transport facilities are low-cost and convenient. Thirdly, being an urban city, shoppers can spend their time rummaging through numerous multiplexes and malls. Fourthly, for those who like to spend time in nature, Chandigarh offers plenty of gardens and parks for a pleasant time. Internationally recognized Rock Garden and Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, are the largest of their kind in Asia. Finally, Chandigarh has excellent healthcare infrastructure and a low crime rate, which makes it the best post-retirement destination.
- Monthly Rent: 30k to 50k for a 2-3 BHK flat
- Property Purchase Cost: 2.5+ Cr for a villa or a bungalow
- Air Quality: Good
- Cost of Living: High
- Health and Safety: Very Safe
- Climate: Good
- Connectivity: Good
- Traffic: Moderate
- Public Transport Facilities: Good
- Life Quality Index: Excellent
- Popular Real Estate Companies: Tricity Estate Provider, Delhi Punjab Real Estate Private Limited, Samridhi Realty Homes Pvt. Ltd.
Staying in India is a cheap affair if you’re a settler from abroad. Thus, the average rent in metro cities will cost you around $600 a month for a semi-furnished apartment and a good dinner is around $4-$9. Also, as you get used to the taste, an authentic local India meal will cost even less. It’s cheaper if you decide to live in semi-urban cities because they are less crowded and pocket friendly. Vegetarians will find numerous food options in India because of the tropical climate, while meat-lovers might have to treat chicken, pork and beef as a luxury. On the brighter side, firstly, cheap labour will get you enough help for day to day household chores and secondly, medication can be found almost everywhere.
Pune, Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai and Goa are excellent choices for party lovers. Additionally, cities more welcoming to LGBTs are Chandigarh, Hyderabad, Pune, Bengaluru, Mumbai and Delhi NCR.
Few Drawbacks of Retiring in India
No country is spared from its negative aspects. Hence, ex-pats might find it tough to make it among Indians as many cultures coexist in the cities. Adjusting to such an intense change is daunting at first. For instance, few places in India are less polluted and metro cities are considered the worst affected by traffic. Although, infrastructure is fast developing in urban areas, yet suburban places still face road and rail problems.
Security and privacy are a concern for women, therefore new settlers might not feel safe from the prying eyes of curious strangers or sometimes even nosy neighbours. However, privacy and space are often no issue in big cities and ex-pat communities. People visiting tourist spots will have to clutch their wallets tightly because of the theft rate in some places.
India is thus, for the adventurer, the poet and the seeker who likes to be surprised with colours, food, spirituality, festivals, history and exotic cultures. Moreover, it is for people who want to surf through life surrounded by excitement and humility. Whether it’s at the beaches of Goa, crowded pubs of Mumbai, chilly hills of Pune or among the holy temples of Rishikesh, you can find your nirvana post-retirement right here.