How Wealthy Are People in Dhaka, Bangladesh?
Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, is home to a very large population, estimated at over 10 million people within the city proper, and a major center for the country’s economy. When looking at how rich people are here, it’s not a simple picture. There’s a significant difference in wealth levels among its residents.
Data on average or median income specifically for a large city like Dhaka isn’t always precisely tracked and published by official sources in the same way as some Western countries. However, looking at available data and estimates, like those compiled by cost-of-living databases, provides a general idea.
Estimates often place the average monthly net salary in Dhaka somewhere around 25,000 to 35,000 Bangladeshi Taka (BDT). It’s important to understand that this is an average, which can be skewed by very high earners. The median income (the middle point) is likely lower, reflecting that a large portion of the population earns less than the average.
Income vs. Cost of Living
Comparing this estimated average income to the cost of living shows that for many, life in Dhaka is a financial challenge. Basic monthly costs for a single person, including rent for a small apartment outside the city center, food, and transport, can easily exceed 20,000-25,000 BDT. For a family, these costs are significantly higher.
This means that while the average might seem moderate, a large number of people earning at or below the median income struggle to cover essential expenses, save money, or afford anything beyond necessities.
The Inequality Gap
A defining characteristic of wealth in Dhaka is the wide gap between the rich and the poor. This inequality is very visible throughout the city.
There are areas where people live with very limited resources, often in crowded and informal settlements. On the other hand, there are specific neighborhoods where wealth is concentrated.
Where the Rich Live and Their Lifestyle
Wealthy residents in Dhaka typically live in upscale areas like Gulshan, Banani, and Baridhara. These neighborhoods are known for their larger, more expensive homes, modern apartment buildings, private security, and better infrastructure compared to many other parts of the city.
The lifestyle of the rich in Dhaka includes living in spacious, well-appointed residences, driving luxury cars, sending children to expensive private schools (both local and international), shopping at high-end boutiques and malls, dining at exclusive restaurants, and traveling frequently, often abroad. They have access to private clubs, domestic staff, and healthcare facilities that are out of reach for the majority of the population.
High-Income Employment Sectors
The jobs that lead to high incomes in Dhaka are generally found in certain sectors:
- Finance: Banking, investment, and financial services offer lucrative positions, especially at senior levels.
- Real Estate: With rapid urban development, those involved in large-scale real estate development and investment can accumulate significant wealth.
- Garment Industry Ownership/Management: While many garment workers earn low wages, the owners and top executives of large garment manufacturing and export companies are among the wealthiest individuals.
- Large Corporations: Senior management and executive positions in major local conglomerates and multinational companies based in Dhaka are very well-compensated.
- Government and Politics: High-ranking positions in government and successful political careers can also lead to considerable wealth accumulation.
- Successful Entrepreneurship: Owners of thriving businesses in various sectors, from technology to services, can become very rich.
In summary, while average income figures might seem modest when compared to the cost of living, Dhaka has a substantial population of wealthy individuals whose income and lifestyle are vastly different from the majority, highlighting the significant economic inequality within the city.