Understanding Wealth Levels in Ahmedabad, India#

Let’s look at how rich people are in Ahmedabad, a major city in Gujarat, India, with a population of over 6.3 million. Wealth levels here cover a wide range, from those with modest incomes to very wealthy individuals.

Typical Income and Cost of Living#

Defining a single “average” or “median” income for a large city like Ahmedabad is difficult, as figures change and depend heavily on the sector and job experience. However, based on general estimates and cost-of-living data available from sources like Numbeo, we can get a picture:

• Entry-level or unskilled jobs: Monthly incomes might range from around ₹15,000 to ₹25,000.
• Experienced professionals: Depending on the field, this could be anywhere from ₹40,000 to ₹1,00,000 or more per month.
• Business owners, senior management, specialized roles: Incomes in these categories can be significantly higher, potentially reaching several lakhs (hundreds of thousands) per month or much more annually.

Comparing this to the cost of living: A single person’s basic monthly expenses (food, transport, utilities) in Ahmedabad might be around ₹18,000 to ₹25,000, excluding rent. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from ₹10,000 to ₹20,000 or higher, while outside the center it could be ₹7,000 to ₹15,000.

This suggests that while entry-level salaries cover basic living costs, building significant savings or affording a comfortable lifestyle, especially for a family, requires a higher income. A monthly household income above ₹50,000-₹70,000 would generally allow for a comfortable middle-class life, including rent and some discretionary spending, though this is relative.

Inequality in Ahmedabad#

Like many large cities globally, Ahmedabad has a noticeable gap between different income groups. Wealth is not distributed evenly across the population of over 6.3 million people. There are areas with affluent residents and upscale infrastructure, alongside areas where people live on much lower incomes and have more basic living conditions. This means that while some people are very wealthy, a significant portion of the population earns modest incomes or struggles to make ends meet.

Where Wealthy People Live and Their Lifestyle#

Higher-income individuals and families in Ahmedabad often reside in specific areas known for larger homes, modern apartment complexes, and better amenities. Areas along and around Sardar Patel Ring Road and S.G. Highway, as well as localities like Satellite, Bodakdev, Thaltej, and Prahaladnagar, are often associated with more affluent residential properties.

The lifestyle of wealthy residents typically includes living in spacious houses or apartments, owning multiple cars, dining out frequently at upscale restaurants, sending children to private schools, and traveling. They often have access to private clubs, gyms, and other leisure facilities. Their spending power significantly contributes to the market for luxury goods and services in the city.

Key Employment Sectors Generating High Income#

Several sectors in Ahmedabad are known for generating higher incomes and wealth:

• Manufacturing and Industry: Traditionally strong sectors like textiles, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and engineering continue to provide significant income opportunities, especially for business owners, managers, and skilled professionals.
• Real Estate and Construction: With the city’s growth, the real estate and construction sectors have created considerable wealth for developers, contractors, and associated businesses.
• Information Technology (IT) and Services: While perhaps not as large as some other Indian cities, the IT and service sectors employ many professionals who earn competitive salaries.
• Trade and Business: Ahmedabad has a long history as a trading hub. Business ownership, especially in established industries and growing retail sectors, is a major source of high income.
• Finance and Consulting: Professionals in banking, finance, and consulting services also tend to earn above-average incomes.

In summary, while a precise figure for “how rich” the average person is remains elusive due to wide variations, Ahmedabad is home to a significant number of wealthy individuals and families, alongside a large population with lower to middle incomes. Wealth is concentrated in specific areas and linked to key industrial and service sectors.