Cost of Living in Dhaka

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Dhaka

"The cost of living in Dhaka is generally considered to be quite affordable. Basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are relatively inexpensive compared to other cities in the region. However, the cost of living can vary depending on the area of the city and the lifestyle of the individual. For example, living in a more affluent area of the city can be more expensive than living in a more rural area. Additionally, the cost of entertainment and leisure activities can also vary depending on the individual's preferences," said one expat living in Dhaka.

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

"I've been living in Dhaka for a while now, and I can tell you that it's possible to live on $1,500 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. First, you'll need to find a place to live that's affordable. Some of the more expensive neighborhoods like Gulshan, Banani, and Baridhara are probably out of your budget, as rents can be quite high there. Instead, consider looking for an apartment in areas like Dhanmondi, Mirpur, or Uttara, where you can find more reasonably priced accommodations.Next, you'll need to be mindful of your transportation costs. Owning a car in Dhaka can be expensive, so you might want to rely on public transportation like buses, rickshaws, or CNGs (auto-rickshaws) to get around. These options are much more affordable, but they can be crowded and sometimes uncomfortable. If you're willing to put up with that, you can save a lot of money on transportation.Eating out can also be quite expensive in Dhaka, especially if you're used to Western-style restaurants. To save money, try eating at local eateries or street food stalls, which offer delicious Bangladeshi cuisine at a fraction of the cost. You can also save money by cooking at home, as groceries are generally quite affordable.As for entertainment, you'll need to be selective about how you spend your leisure time. Going to the movies, attending concerts, or visiting high-end shopping malls can be pricey. Instead, consider exploring the city's many parks, historical sites, and local markets, which can be both fun and affordable.Finally, keep in mind that healthcare in Dhaka can be a bit of a mixed bag. While there are some good hospitals and clinics, the quality of care can vary, and costs can add up quickly if you need any significant medical treatment. To avoid any unexpected expenses, make sure you have a good health insurance plan in place.In summary, living comfortably on $1,500 a month in Dhaka is possible, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and be willing to make some sacrifices. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, relying on public transportation, eating local cuisine, and finding low-cost entertainment options, you can make it work," commented an expat living in Dhaka.

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

"I've been living in Dhaka for a few years now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, but you'll have to make some adjustments and sacrifices. First, you'll need to find a place to live that's within your budget. Some of the more expensive neighborhoods like Gulshan, Banani, and Baridhara might be out of your price range, as rents can be quite high there. Instead, consider looking for an apartment in areas like Dhanmondi, Mirpur, or Uttara, where you can find more affordable housing options.One of the sacrifices you might have to make is living in a smaller space than you're used to. Apartments in Dhaka can be quite compact, especially in the more affordable neighborhoods. You might also have to deal with power outages and water shortages from time to time, as the city's infrastructure can be unreliable.Transportation can be a bit chaotic in Dhaka, so you'll need to get used to the traffic and the various modes of transport available. You can save money by using rickshaws, buses, or CNG auto-rickshaws for your daily commute, but be prepared for a bit of a learning curve when it comes to navigating the city.Eating out can be quite affordable in Dhaka, especially if you stick to local cuisine. There are plenty of street food vendors and small restaurants where you can get a delicious meal for just a few dollars. However, if you prefer to eat at more upscale restaurants or want to indulge in Western cuisine, you might find that your food budget gets stretched pretty quickly.In terms of entertainment and leisure activities, there are plenty of options in Dhaka, but you might have to be more selective about what you choose to do in order to stay within your budget. Going to the movies, for example, can be quite affordable, but attending concerts or other live events might be more expensive. You can also find plenty of parks and outdoor spaces to enjoy for free or at a low cost.Overall, living in Dhaka on $3,000 a month is doable, but you'll need to be prepared to make some adjustments and sacrifices in terms of your lifestyle and expectations. By being mindful of your spending and seeking out more affordable options, you can still enjoy a comfortable life in this bustling city," said one expat living in Dhaka.

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

"I've been living in Dhaka for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even if you're used to modern amenities. However, there are some sacrifices you might have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you'll need to choose the right neighborhood. Some of the more expensive areas, like Gulshan, Banani, and Baridhara, might be out of your budget if you want to maintain a high standard of living. These areas are popular among expats and have a lot of modern amenities, but the cost of living is significantly higher. Instead, consider looking for housing in areas like Dhanmondi, Uttara, or Mirpur. These neighborhoods are more affordable and still offer a decent quality of life.One of the main sacrifices you might have to make is in terms of your housing. While you can find modern apartments in Dhaka, they can be quite expensive, especially in the more upscale neighborhoods. You might have to settle for a slightly older apartment or one that's not as spacious as you'd like. However, you can still find comfortable and well-maintained apartments within your budget.Another thing to consider is transportation. Traffic in Dhaka can be quite chaotic, and you might have to rely on public transportation or rickshaws more often than you're used to. Owning a car can be expensive, so it's best to use taxis, ridesharing services, or public transportation to get around the city.When it comes to dining out and entertainment, you'll find that there are plenty of affordable options in Dhaka. Local restaurants and street food vendors offer delicious meals at low prices, so you can still enjoy eating out without breaking the bank. However, if you prefer dining at high-end restaurants or frequenting bars and clubs, you might have to cut back on these activities to stay within your budget.Lastly, you might have to adjust your expectations when it comes to certain amenities and services. For example, you might not have access to a gym or swimming pool in your apartment complex, or you might have to deal with occasional power outages and water shortages. However, these inconveniences are manageable, and you can still enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in Dhaka on a $5,000 a month budget.Overall, living in Dhaka on $5,000 a month is doable, but it requires some adjustments and sacrifices. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, being mindful of your spending on housing and transportation, and adjusting your expectations for certain amenities, you can still enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling life in this vibrant city," commented an expat living in Dhaka.