Dehradun nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, is a popular destination for students due to its serene environment, quality educational institutions, and relatively affordable living costs compared to metropolitan cities like Delhi or Mumbai. Known for its pleasant climate, proximity to hill stations like Mussoorie, and a growing academic hub, Dehradun attracts students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional courses. This blog provides a detailed breakdown of the cost of living in Dehradun for students, covering accommodation, food, transportation, education, and other essentials, helping you plan your budget effectively.
Why Choose Dehradun for Studies?
Before diving into the costs, let’s understand why Dehradun is a student-friendly city. Home to prestigious institutions like the University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), Graphic Era University, and DIT University, Dehradun offers a range of academic programs. The city’s peaceful ambiance, coupled with modern amenities, makes it ideal for focused studies. Additionally, the cost of living is lower than in Tier-1 cities, making it an attractive option for students from diverse economic backgrounds.
Breakdown of Living Costs in Dehradun
The cost of living in Dehradun for students depends on lifestyle, accommodation choices, and personal spending habits. Below is a detailed analysis of major expenses, based on 2025 estimates, with approximate costs in Indian Rupees (INR).
1. Accommodation
Accommodation is often the largest expense for students. Dehradun offers various options, from university hostels to private paying guest (PG) accommodations and shared apartments.
- University Hostels: Most colleges in Dehradun provide on-campus hostels, which are the most cost-effective and convenient option. Hostel fees typically range from INR 5,000 to INR 10,000 per month, including basic amenities like electricity, water, and Wi-Fi. Some hostels may also include meals, which reduces food expenses.
- Paying Guest (PG) Accommodations: PGs are popular among students seeking more independence. A single or shared PG room in areas like Rajpur Road, Vasant Vihar, or near Clement Town costs between INR 6,000 and INR 12,000 per month. This usually includes utilities and sometimes meals.
- Shared Apartments/Flats: Renting a 1BHK or 2BHK apartment with roommates is another option. Monthly rent for a 1BHK in student-friendly areas ranges from INR 8,000 to INR 15,000, excluding utilities (INR 1,000–2,000 extra). Sharing a 2BHK can lower individual costs to INR 4,000–7,000 per person.
- One-Time Costs: Security deposits for PGs or flats typically equal 1–2 months’ rent (INR 6,000–20,000), refundable upon leaving.
Average Monthly Cost: INR 5,000–12,000, depending on the type of accommodation.
2. Food
Food expenses vary based on whether students rely on hostel/PG meals, cook their own food, or eat out.
- Hostel/PG Mess: Most hostels and PGs offer mess facilities, providing breakfast, lunch, and dinner for INR 2,500–4,000 per month. These meals are basic, typically including rice, dal, vegetables, and roti.
- Cooking: Students in shared flats can cook to save money. Monthly grocery costs for essentials like rice, lentils, vegetables, and spices range from INR 1,500 to INR 2,500 per person, assuming shared cooking.
- Eating Out: Dehradun has affordable eateries and cafes catering to students. A meal at a local restaurant or dhaba costs INR 100–200, while fast-food chains like Domino’s or cafes charge INR 200–400 per meal. Eating out 5–10 times a month adds INR 1,000–2,000 to expenses.
- Snacks and Beverages: Budget INR 500–1,000 monthly for snacks, coffee, or street food like momos and chaat, popular among students.
Average Monthly Cost: INR 2,500–5,000, depending on dining habits.
3. Transportation
Dehradun is a compact city, and students can manage with affordable transport options.
- Public Transport: Shared auto-rickshaws (Vikrams) and local buses are the cheapest options, with fares ranging from INR 10–30 per trip. Monthly costs for daily commuters are around INR 500–1,000.
- Two-Wheelers: Many students prefer renting or owning scooters for convenience. Renting a scooter costs INR 2,000–3,000 per month, with fuel expenses of INR 500–1,000. Owning a second-hand bike involves a one-time cost of INR 20,000–40,000, plus maintenance and fuel.
- Cabs and Ride-Sharing: Ola and Uber are available but expensive for regular use. A 5–10 km ride costs INR 100–200. Budget INR 500–1,000 monthly if used occasionally.
- Walking/Cycling: Students living near campus can walk or cycle, incurring no transport costs.
Average Monthly Cost: INR 500–3,000, depending on mode of transport.
4. Education-Related Expenses
Tuition fees vary widely based on the institution and course. However, other academic expenses are relatively consistent.
- Books and Stationery: Textbooks, notebooks, and stationery cost INR 2,000–5,000 per semester. E-books or second-hand books can reduce this to INR 1,000–2,000.
- Internet and Software: Most hostels/PGs provide Wi-Fi, but students may need personal data plans (INR 300–600 per month) or software subscriptions (INR 500–1,000 annually for tools like Microsoft Office or Adobe).
- Miscellaneous: Photocopying, printing, and project materials cost INR 500–1,000 per semester.
Average Monthly Cost: INR 500–1,500 (excluding tuition fees).
5. Personal Expenses
Personal expenses include clothing, entertainment, and healthcare.
- Clothing: Dehradun’s weather requires warm clothing in winter and light clothing in summer. Budget INR 2,000–5,000 annually for clothes and shoes.
- Entertainment: Movie tickets cost INR 150–300, and outings to cafes or nearby hill stations like Mussoorie (INR 500–1,000 per trip) are common. Monthly entertainment expenses range from INR 1,000–2,000.
- Healthcare: Basic medicines or doctor visits cost INR 500–1,000 annually, assuming no major health issues. Many colleges provide free or subsidized medical facilities.
- Mobile Recharge: A basic phone plan with data costs INR 300–500 per month.
Average Monthly Cost: INR 1,500–3,000.
6. Miscellaneous Expenses
- Laundry: If not included in PG/hostel fees, laundry services cost INR 300–600 per month.
- Travel: Students traveling home during breaks may spend INR 2,000–5,000 per trip, depending on distance and mode (bus, train, or flight).
- Hobbies/Extracurriculars: Joining clubs, gym memberships, or hobby classes (e.g., music, dance) costs INR 500–2,000 per month.
Average Monthly Cost: INR 500–1,500.
Total Monthly Cost of Living
Here’s a summary of average monthly expenses for a student in Dehradun:
Category | Cost Range (INR) |
|---|---|
Accommodation | 5,000–12,000 |
Food | 2,500–5,000 |
Transportation | 500–3,000 |
Education-Related | 500–1,500 |
Personal Expenses | 1,500–3,000 |
Miscellaneous | 500–1,500 |
Total | 10,500–26,000 |
On average, a student can live comfortably in Dehradun for INR 12,000–18,000 per month, with frugal lifestyles costing as low as INR 10,000 and more comfortable ones reaching INR 20,000–26,000.
Tips to Save Money in Dehradun
- Choose Hostels or Shared PGs: Opt for university hostels or shared PGs to minimize accommodation and food costs.
- Cook Meals: Share grocery expenses with roommates and cook simple meals to save on dining costs.
- Use Public Transport: Rely on Vikrams or buses instead of cabs or personal vehicles.
- Buy Second-Hand Books: Purchase used textbooks or use library resources to cut academic expenses.
- Limit Eating Out: Reserve eating out for special occasions and enjoy affordable street food for variety.
- Explore Free Activities: Take advantage of Dehradun’s natural beauty with low-cost outings like hikes or visits to Robber’s Cave.
Conclusion
Dehradun offers an affordable and enriching experience for students, balancing quality education with a reasonable cost of living. With monthly expenses ranging from INR 10,500 to INR 26,000, students can tailor their budgets to their needs and preferences. By making smart choices—like opting for hostels, cooking meals, and using public transport—you can enjoy Dehradun’s charm without breaking the bank. Cost of Living in Dehradun for Students Whether you’re drawn to its academic opportunities or scenic beauty, Dehradun is a city where students can thrive financially and personally.
