City Watch: Cost Of Living In Ranchi

Ranchi, is a thriving hub for students. With its rich culture, affordable living, and top-notch educational institutions, it has become an attractive destination for those seeking academic excellence and career opportunities.

In this article, Sumit Kumar, a final year BTech (Computer Science) student at Birla Institute of Technology (BIT), Mesra, tells you everything you need to know about Ranchi, from accommodation and living costs to popular local attractions and shopping destinations.

Economical And Upmarket Localities

Ranchi offers a variety of residential areas to suit every budget. Some of the popular localities where students live include Lalpur, Ashok Nagar, Kadru, Rajendra Nagar Colony, Lok Vihar, Harmu, and Bariyatu etc. The rent at these places are as follows:

> 1 BHK Apartments: Rs 4,000 - Rs 5,000

> 2 BHK Apartments: Rs 6,000 - Rs 8,500

> 3 BHK Apartments: Rs 9,000 - Rs 12,000

Apart from rented flats, there are Paying Guest (PG) Accommodations as well with various amenities such as AC, meals, water filters, internet, and laundry services etc. PG rentals typically range from Rs 3,500 to Rs 7,500 (varying as per the services taken).

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If you prefer upscale living, you can explore posh areas like Morabadi, Ratu Road, Doranda, Hinoo, Kokar, and Argora. Most of these places have gated societies. Here, the average rents are slightly higher:

> 1 BHK Apartments: Rs 8,000 - Rs 10,000

> 2 BHK Apartments: Rs 12,000 - Rs 18,000

> 3 BHK Apartments: Rs 20,000 - Rs 35,000

Expenditure On Food

Students residing in PGs or college hostels get food from the PG and college mess itself. But, those who live by themselves in rented flats either cook their food on their own or hire a maid. A maid typically charges Rs 1500 - Rs 2,000 for cooking a two-time meal per day for two students.

Ranchi is not a very costly city. A student’s average expenditure on food ranges between Rs 1,500 and Rs 2,500.

Travelling Expenses

Travelling within Ranchi is also affordable. A student spends nearly Rs 1,500 per month. The city has a well-connected public as well as private transportation system, making it easy to navigate all across the city.

Leisure And Tourist Attractions

Ranchi offers a plethora of tourist spots to explore, including Patratu Valley, Dassam Falls, Yogoda Satsanga Society of India, Jagannath Mandir, Maa Dewri Mandir, Jonha Falls, Pahari Mandir, and Birsa Zoological Park etc.

Apart from these tourist places, Ranchi boasts vibrant shopping places. Some famous local markets here are Church Complex, Upper Bazar, Pandra Bazar, Kutchery Road, and Daily Market.

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Food and Street food

The food culture of Ranchi is very similar to that of Bihar as Ranchi was a part of Bihar before the formation of Jharkhand. People of Ranchi prefer eating rice, pulses, chapati, vegetables, non-vegetarian dishes, and pickles as their main food.

Coming to the street food, you can savour local delicacies like Dhuska, Litti-Chokha, Sattu Paratha, Dubki, Pittha, Khapada, Arsa, and Meetha Pittha etc. These are not only delicious but also easy on the pocket.

Climate

Ranchi has a subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The months of March to June are very hot, with temperatures often reaching 35-40 degrees Celsius. From July to September (monsoon season), Ranchi receives rainfall and becomes lush and green. The humidity levels in Ranchi can be quite high, especially during and after the monsoon season.

After the monsoon, the weather gradually becomes cooler and more pleasant. This is considered one of the best times to visit Ranchi. Now, coming to the winters, Ranchi is relatively cool during the winters, with temperatures dropping to around 5-10 degrees Celsius. It can be quite chilly, especially during the night.

Educational Institution

Ranchi is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including Birla Institute of Technology (BIT), Mesra, Usha Martin University, Ranchi Women’s College, Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Ranchi, Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT), Ranchi, Xavier Institute of Social Service (XISS), National Institute of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, and many more.

People and Culture

The people of Ranchi are known for their warmth and helpfulness. The city's culture is deeply rooted in its history, and it shares many cultural elements with its neighbouring state, Bihar, due to its historical connection.

Ranchi is a city that welcomes students from all across the country with open arms. With affordable living options, excellent educational institutions, a rich culture, and a multitude of attractions, Ranchi is a city of opportunities and experiences waiting to be explored. So, if you get a chance to study in Ranchi, don’t hesitate to pack your bags and embark on a journey to this beautiful city in the heart of Jharkhand.

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