60 cities covered · Currency: LKR (₨) · Capital: Colombo
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | ₨1,145 ($3.82) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | ₨4,579 ($15.26) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | ₨343 ($1.14) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | ₨25,949 ($86.50) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | ₨4,198 ($13.99) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | ₨11,066 ($36.89) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | ₨3,205 ($10.68) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | ₨3,205 ($10.68) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | ₨840 ($2.80) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | ₨51,949 ($173) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | ₨36,139 ($120) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | ₨108,416 ($361) | per month |
Western · pop. 2,323,826
Western · pop. 243,842
Western · pop. 234,559
Western · pop. 195,355
Western · pop. 191,040
Western · pop. 168,280
Sabaragamuwa · pop. 165,998
Western · pop. 142,136
Central · pop. 120,087
Western · pop. 115,826
Sabaragamuwa · pop. 111,727
Central · pop. 107,523
North Central · pop. 103,717
Southern · pop. 101,342
Eastern · pop. 99,135
Eastern · pop. 95,489
Southern · pop. 93,118
Eastern · pop. 91,457
North Central · pop. 88,138
Southern · pop. 79,618
North Central · pop. 75,175
North Western · pop. 75,081
Southern · pop. 72,511
Southern · pop. 72,500
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Sri Lanka
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Sri Lanka
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Sri Lanka
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Sri Lanka
Living costs in Sri Lanka vary significantly depending on city size. Large metropolitan areas with populations over one million typically see housing costs 15–30% above the national average, while smaller towns can be 10–20% below it. The national baseline of ₨112,459 ($375) per month represents a mid-sized city estimate.
Capital cities and major economic hubs command the highest rents and overall expenses. For budget-conscious residents, mid-sized cities offer a balance of amenities and affordability. Rural and small-town living remains the most economical option, though transport and service access may be limited.