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  1. Home
  2. Return to India: Decision & Planning
  3. How to Choose the Right City to Relocate to in India: A Guide
Return to India: Decision & Planning
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  1. 1Deciding
  2. 2Getting ready
  3. 3Making the move
  4. 4Life after landing

You're in the deciding phase — figuring out if, when and how a move back works for your family.

Start your Return Plan

How to Choose the Right City to Relocate to in India: A Guide

Mani Karthik·March 31, 2023·Updated November 23, 2024·3 min read·Deciding

Reviewed by returnees. Cross-checked with RBI, Income Tax Department and MEA. Editorial policy.

Content Index
  • Climate and Weather
  • Cost of Living
  • Employment Opportunities
  • Education and Schools
  • Healthcare Facilities
  • Connectivity and Transportation
  • Lifestyle and Entertainment

Are you an NRI dreaming of moving back to India, but feeling overwhelmed by the plethora of cities to choose from?

You’re not alone!

We understand that picking the perfect city to relocate to can be a daunting task, especially when you’ve been away for so long.

But don’t worry, we’ve got your back!

In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll guide you through the process of choosing the perfect city to call home, with a pinch of humor and a healthy dose of nostalgia.

So, buckle up and let’s embark on this exciting journey to find your Indian haven!

Climate and Weather

When choosing your ideal city, the climate plays a crucial role.

After all, you wouldn’t want to trade your comfy life in the US for sweltering heat or bone-chilling cold, would you?

  • For those who prefer mild temperatures, cities like Bengaluru, Pune, and Dehradun offer pleasant weather year-round.
  • If you’re a fan of cooler climes, Shimla, Ooty, and Darjeeling are excellent choices.
  • For sun worshippers, coastal cities like Mumbai, Chennai, and Visakhapatnam provide ample sunshine and sandy beaches.
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A Permanent Account Number (PAN) is a 10-character alphanumeric code issued by the Indian Income Tax Department to all taxable entities. It is a must-have for anyone who earns an income in India, regardless of whether they are an Indian national or a Non-Resident Indian (NRI). As an NRI, it’s important to understand the process […]

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Cost of Living

As an NRI, you’re probably accustomed to a certain standard of living. While India is generally more affordable than the US, the cost of living can vary significantly between cities.

  • Affordable options include cities like Indore, Bhubaneswar, and Coimbatore, which offer a lower cost of living without sacrificing quality.
  • For those who don’t mind splurging, Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru are the obvious choices, with their vibrant lifestyles and endless amenities.
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Employment Opportunities

If you’re planning to work after moving back, consider cities with thriving job markets.

We’ve got you covered with our list of cities known for their flourishing industries:

  • IT and tech hubs: Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune
  • Finance and business centers: Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata
  • Manufacturing and industrial cities: Chennai, Ahmedabad, and Surat
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Education and Schools

For those with children, finding the right school is a top priority. India offers a variety of educational boards, including CBSE, ICSE, and international curriculums.

Check out our articles on the best international schools in Bangalore and Hyderabad for more information on top institutions.

Keep reading
How to renew a PassportRenewing your passport doesn’t have to be a complicated process, but it can be time-consuming. Knowing the steps and having the necessary documentation ready ahead of time can help make the application process go more smoothly. Learn more about what documents you need and how to submit your passport renewal application here. Renewing a passport […]The Ultimate Return to India Checklist for NRIsA member in our WhatsApp group once told me, “Mani, I have 47 open tabs on my browser. Each one is about a different thing I need to do before moving back. I don’t even know where to start.” I felt that. Deeply. When I was planning my own move back from the US in […]

Healthcare Facilities

Your health is your wealth, so make sure the city you choose has top-notch healthcare facilities.

Metros like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai are known for their world-class hospitals and specialized medical centers.

Deciding → Getting ready

Ready for the getting ready stage?

Continue with our Banking guide.

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Connectivity and Transportation

Good connectivity and transportation options are essential for a smooth transition.

Cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata boast well-developed public transportation systems, including metro trains, buses, and auto-rickshaws. Plus, they’re well connected to both international and domestic airports, making travel a breeze.

Lifestyle and Entertainment

Last but not least, consider the lifestyle and entertainment options available in each city.

For those who crave the cosmopolitan vibe, Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru offer diverse dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.

If you prefer a more laid-back lifestyle, cities like Jaipur, Kochi, and Mysore boast rich cultural heritage and a slower pace of life.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, choosing the perfect city to relocate to in India is a personal decision based on your unique needs and preferences.

Use this comprehensive comparison as a starting point to narrow down your options, and don’t be afraid to visit each city on your shortlist before making a final decision.

After all, there’s no better way to get a feel for a place than by experiencing it firsthand.

As you embark on this exciting chapter of your life, remember that it’s normal to feel nostalgic about India and yearn for the warmth of its culture.

Embrace the journey and the many adventures that await you as you rediscover your roots and create new memories in your chosen city.

And who knows?

Maybe one day, you’ll be the one sharing your experiences and advice with fellow NRIs looking to make the same journey back to India. Happy homecoming!

Written by

Mani Karthik

Mani Karthik

Founder, BackToIndia · Returnee since 2016

Mani Karthik is an entrepreneur who moved back to India in 2016 after nearly a decade living and working in the US and the Middle East. He started BackToIndia to help other NRIs navigate the move — banking, taxes, schooling, careers and the everyday reality of resettling in India.

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Where to next

Continue Return to India: Decision & PlanningHere’s How to Apply for a PAN Card for NRIsTrack it in the appStart your Return PlanSave your notes, timeline and decisions in one place.Ask other returneesJoin the Deciding communityReal Q&A with people at your stage of the move.
How to Return Back to India: The Complete Guide for NRIsHere’s How to Apply for a PAN Card for NRIs