This Indian City Is the Cheapest Place to Live in the World in 2025 — You’ll Be Surprised!

Coimbatore, India: The world’s most affordable city in 2025, where culture, nature, and budget-friendly living come together.

When it comes to cities where your money stretches the farthest, Coimbatore, India, takes the crown. According to Numbeo’s 2025 mid-year Cost of Living Index, this vibrant South Indian city ranks as the least expensive city in the world, with a score of just 17.1. To put it in perspective, New York City is the baseline at 100—meaning everyday life in Coimbatore costs only a fraction of what it would in the Big Apple. From groceries to dining, commuting, and utilities, residents enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without burning a hole in their pockets.

Why Coimbatore Is So Affordable

A low cost of living index simply means you get more for less. Daily essentials—from meals and transport to utilities—are remarkably cheaper than in most global cities. While rent isn’t always included in the index, living in Coimbatore is budget-friendly without compromising on quality of life, making it an attractive choice for families, students, and professionals alike.

The Manchester of the South

Coimbatore isn’t just affordable—it’s a city with substance and character. Nicknamed the “Manchester of the South”, it’s a bustling industrial and textile hub with a thriving economy and a rich cultural heritage. As Tamil Nadu’s second-largest city after Chennai, Coimbatore combines modern infrastructure with age-old traditions, creating a unique blend of urban energy and South Indian charm.

Explore Coimbatore: Where Culture Meets Nature

Coimbatore is full of surprises for travelers and residents alike. Here are some must-visit spots:

1. Perur Pateeswarar Temple: Step back into history at this 2nd-century temple built by Karikala Chola, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Legends say it’s where Shiva performed his cosmic dance, the Ananda Thandavam.

2. GD Naidu Museum: Car enthusiasts and history buffs will love this museum, showcasing vintage cars and rare collections curated by Coimbatore’s legendary industrialist GD Naidu.

3. Siruvani Waterfalls: Just 35 km from the city, this cascading waterfall and dam, fed by the sweet Siruvani River, is a nature lover’s paradise tucked away in dense forests.

Isha Yoga Center (Image: Canva)

4. Isha Yoga Center: Nestled at the foothills of Velliangiri, this spiritual sanctuary founded by Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev offers meditation, yoga, and a chance to reconnect with nature.

5. Sidhapudur Sree Ayyappan Temple: Modeled after Kerala’s iconic Sabarimala temple, this centrally located spiritual landmark draws devotees and curious visitors alike.

When to Visit

For those planning a trip, the best months are October to March, when temperatures hover between 20–30°C—perfect for sightseeing and exploring the outdoors. Summers can get hot and humid, while the monsoon months bring heavy rains that may disrupt travel plans.

Living or Visiting: Why Coimbatore Stands Out

Coimbatore is more than just a bargain destination—it’s a city that offers a high quality of life at an unbeatable cost, where modern conveniences coexist with history, nature, and spirituality. Affordable yet vibrant, industrial yet scenic, it’s a city that surprises at every turn.

Whether you’re considering relocation, a long stay, or a leisurely visit, Coimbatore proves one thing: living well doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.