Delhi vs. Mumbai: Which is the Better City

Get ready to witness an epic clash of the titans as we dive headfirst into the age-old rivalry between two of India’s most iconic cities: Delhi and Mumbai. As passionate residents of these vibrant metropolises fiercely defend their turf, it’s time to put on our detective hats and dive deep into the essence of each city.

Delhi, the heart of the nation, welcomes you with its rich history, magnificent monuments, and mouthwatering street food. But hold on tight because Mumbai, the city that never sleeps, beckons with its electrifying energy, Bollywood dreams, and a sea breeze that whispers tales of ambition.

Join us as we compare the two titans on various fronts – culture, food, people, and everything in between. We’ll navigate through the bustling streets, savor the spicy flavors, and feel the pulse of these dynamic urban giants.

So, dear readers, fasten your seatbelts and get ready for an exhilarating showdown of Delhi vs. Mumbai, where we’ll ultimately decide which city deserves the crown of being India’s finest!

Delhi Vs. Mumbai Comparison – Which city is better to live in?

1. Historical and Cultural Background 

Delhi: Delhi, the vibrant capital of India, boasts a history that stretches back over millennia. Its roots can be traced to the ancient Indraprastha, a legendary city mentioned in the Indian epic, the Mahabharata. Throughout history, Delhi has been witnessing the rise and fall of several empires, including the Mauryas, Guptas, Delhi Sultanate, and Mughals.

Delhi’s Historical and Cultural Significance: 

  • Chosen as the capital of India in 1911 due to its central location and historical importance.
  • A melting pot of diverse cultures, languages, and traditions, reflecting its status as India’s political nerve center.
  • Boasts a unique blend of old and new, with ancient temples coexisting alongside modern skyscrapers and bustling bazaars.

Mumbai: On the other hand, Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, has a more recent history as a significant financial and commercial hub of India. Originally a cluster of islands inhabited by fishing communities, Mumbai gained prominence when the Portuguese and later the British East India Company established trading posts here.

Mumbai’s Historical and Cultural Significance:

  • As India’s largest port city, Mumbai played a crucial role in colonial trade, linking the subcontinent with the rest of the world.
  • The city’s entrepreneurial spirit and cosmopolitan nature led to rapid industrialization, making it the financial powerhouse it is today.
  • Home to Bollywood, India’s dynamic film industry, contributing to its diverse and lively cultural landscape.

2. Infrastructure and Development

Delhi: The sprawling metropolis of Delhi grapples with the challenges of accommodating its burgeoning population. While the city boasts a well-established transportation system, including an extensive network of buses and a developing metro rail network, the rapid urbanization has put immense pressure on these services.

Delhi Public Infrastructure:

  • Transportation in Delhi comprises a mix of options, including the Delhi Metro, buses, and auto-rickshaws, making it one of the better-connected cities in India.
  • The city’s road network is extensive but often faces congestion and traffic jams due to the high volume of vehicles.
  • According to the Socio-Economic Survey report, 70% of Delhi’s residents use public transport services such as buses, charter buses and metro to commute to work.
  • Only 0.3% of the total working population is dependent on using private vehicles, while the other 11.15% of the population is mainly dependent on cabs, e-rickshaws, and taxis.
  • In the same report, as of 2021, 73% of the total working-class population of Delhi uses public transport for hospital related emergencies.
  • Delhi has witnessed extensive urban planning over the years, but it has also struggled with issues like unauthorized colonies and slums, affecting the city’s aesthetics and infrastructure.
  • According to a breakdown of the government’s annual budget for public infrastructure development, about Rs 334 crores were dedicated to rural development and Rs 3,038 for urban development including better sanitation, water supply, promoting culture, social and family welfare and housing.
  • The government has undertaken initiatives to develop satellite towns and enhance connectivity with surrounding regions, aiming to decongest the city center.

Mumbai: As the financial and commercial capital of India, Mumbai stands tall with its well-established infrastructure. The city’s lifeline, the suburban railway system, caters to millions of commuters daily, earning its nickname as the “lifeline of Mumbai.”

Mumbai’s Public Infrastructure:

  • Although the road infrastructure is well-maintained, the city grapples with perennial traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.
  • Public services in Mumbai have made significant strides, with top-tier hospitals, educational institutions, and cultural centers accessible to its residents.
  • In 2022, 38 e-challans were issued of traffic related disturbances caused by rash and drunk driving, but the same has seen a steep incline with he number increasing to 539.
  • According to Tom Tom’s Overview report, it takes about 25 minutes and 20 seconds to drive 10km in Mumbai on a regular day.
  • Approximately 84 extra hours are spent by commuters driving through the congested roads of Mumbai in 2022.
  • Urban planning in Mumbai faces unique challenges due to space constraints and the city’s island geography. High-rise buildings dominate the skyline as a result of vertical development to accommodate the growing population.
  • The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has allocated a total budget of Rs 76,432 crores for urban development, particularly metro projects.
  • The city’s development initiatives have focused on expanding business districts like Bandra-Kurla Complex and creating more green spaces for recreation and environmental conservation.

3. Economy and Job Opportunities

Delhi: Delhi has a diverse and resilient economy, with a mix of industries contributing to its growth. The city serves as a major hub for government offices, administrative functions, and diplomatic missions, thanks to its status as the national capital.

Delhi’s Economy and Job Market: 

  • Delhi’s economy is the 13th largest among Indian states and union territories.
  • Booming entertainment industry, Bollywood, contributing to job prospects in media, entertainment, and related fields.
  • In 2020-21, the tertiary sector contributed 85% of Delhi’s GSDP, followed by the secondary and primary sectors at 12% and 3%, respectively.
  • The services sector recorded an annual growth rate of 7.3%.
  • Delhi is the largest commercial center in northern India.
  • As of 2021, recent estimates of the economy of the urban area of Delhi ranged from $370 billion (PPP metro GDP) to $272.603 billion (Nominal GDP), ranking it either the most or second-most productive metro area of India.
  • The Port and Shipping industry plays a vital role in trade and commerce, further diversifying the city’s economic prospects.

Mumbai: Mumbai’s economic landscape is dominated by its role as India’s financial capital. It houses the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), Reserve Bank of India (RBI), and numerous multinational corporations, making it a magnet for finance, banking, and investment sectors.

Mumbai’s Economy and Job Market:

  • The finance and banking sectors in Mumbai provide lucrative opportunities for finance professionals, accountants, investment bankers, and analysts.
  • Mumbai’s job market experienced significant growth in the first half of 2023.
  • Over 45,000 job opportunities were posted on apna.co, indicating a robust employment landscape and the city’s appeal to professionals seeking new career prospects.
  • The entertainment industry, centered around Bollywood, offers diverse job prospects in acting, production, direction, and various technical roles, attracting talent from all over the country.
  • Mumbai’s media and advertising sectors are also significant contributors to its job market, with opportunities in journalism, advertising, public relations, and content creation.
  • The number of employers in Mumbai increased by 30% in the first half of 2023, with around 10,000 new employers joining the platform compared to the previous year.
  • A total of 2.5 million job applications were received, with women contributing to about 38% of the total applications, indicating a strong demand for employment opportunities and active female workforce participation in the city.

4. Cost of Living and Housing

Delhi: The cost of living in Delhi varies significantly based on the neighborhood and lifestyle preferences. As the capital city, certain areas can be quite expensive, particularly those in close proximity to government offices and commercial centers. However, Delhi also offers more affordable living options in its suburban areas and outskirts.

Delhi’s Cost of Living and Housing Options:

  • Delhi generally has a lower cost of living compared to Mumbai, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable lifestyle.
  • The estimated cost of living for a family in Delhi in 2023 is estimated to be about Rs 109,132.9 without rent.
  • A single person is estimated to spend about Rs 31,993 to live in Delhi city.
  • Property cost estimates in South Delhi is around Rs 13,950/ sq.ft on average.
  • Daily expenses, including transportation, food, and entertainment, are relatively reasonable in Delhi, providing residents with a broader range of options within their budgets.
  • Delhi offers a more varied housing market with a mix of residential options, including apartments, independent houses, and gated communities. While some areas may have higher rental prices, there are also more affordable neighborhoods suitable for budget-conscious individuals and families.

Mumbai: Mumbai is notorious for its high cost of living, ranking among the most expensive cities in India. Accommodation, in particular, can be exorbitant, especially in areas like South Mumbai and central locations.

  • Mumbai, on the other hand, is known for its higher cost of living, especially in terms of housing and daily expenses.
  • The cost of dining out, entertainment, and social activities in Mumbai tends to be higher due to the city’s vibrant and fast-paced lifestyle.
  • The estimated cost of living for a family of four is Rs. 1,10,857 without rent, but an individual, it is believed to be approximately Rs. 35,000.
  • Mumbai’s housing market is notorious for its exorbitant real estate prices and limited availability of affordable housing options. The demand for space in the densely populated city often drives rental and property costs higher.
  • Due to the presence of numerous businesses and industries, Mumbai has the highest costs of living in India, especially when considering the expenses associated with rent.

5. Education and Healthcare

Delhi: Delhi’s educational infrastructure encompasses a robust network of schools, colleges, and universities, making it a thriving educational hub. The city boasts renowned educational institutions like Delhi University, Jawaharlal Nehru University, and the Indian Institute of Technology, attracting students from across the country and beyond.

Education and Healthcare Facilities in Delhi:

  • The current literacy rate of Delhi is 86.34%.
  • Delhi has a total of 5798 schools.
  • 25% of seats in private schools are reserved for underprivileged children.
  • Tertiary education is managed by the Directorate of Higher Education.
  • Delhi NCR has approximately 500,000 university students attending over 165 universities and colleges.
  • In 2023-24, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has been allocated Rs 89,155 crore, this represents a 13% increase over the revised estimates for 2022-23.
  • The Department of Health and Family Welfare receives Rs 86,175 crore, accounting for 97% of the Ministry’s expenditure.
  • The Department of Health Research has been allocated Rs 2,980 crore.

Mumbai: The city houses prestigious educational institutions such as the University of Mumbai, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, and the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, offering numerous academic opportunities. Mumbai’s schools encompass a mix of government, private, and international schools, ensuring accessibility to quality education for all strata of society.

Education and Healthcare Facilities in Mumbai: 

  • The total number of literates in Mumbai city is 10,084,507.
  • Out of the total literates, 5,633,709 are males, and 4,450,798 are females.
  • The average literacy rate in Mumbai city is 89.73 percent.
  • The male literacy rate is 92.56 percent, while the female literacy rate is 86.39 percent.
  • The Central Government has two major policies for healthcare infrastructure: Ayushman Bharat and The Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY).
  • When analyzing the number of deaths registered in Mumbai, 1,12,906 total deaths were registered in 2020 of which, only 10% (11,116) were COVID deaths.
  • Excluding COVID deaths, the total number of fatalities registered in Mumbai has increased by 12%; from 91,223 in 2019 to 1,01,790 in 2020.
  • Ayushman Bharat aims to create 1,50,000 Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) to provide Comprehensive Primary Health Care (CPHC) by transforming PHCs/SCs.
  • The National Building Code (NBC) regulations have been incorporated in the Greater Mumbai Report on Draft Development Plan 2034, recommending 1 dispensary for every 15,000 population.

6. Safety and Security

Delhi: Delhi’s safety and security situation have been a matter of concern, with varying crime rates across different areas of the city. While Delhi offers a vibrant urban experience, it also grapples with higher crime rates compared to some other Indian cities. Crimes such as petty theft, street harassment, and cases of violence have been reported, particularly in certain localities.

Crime Rates in Delhi:

  • According to the statistical report submitted by the National Crime Records Bureau, Crime in India, Delhi was ranked as the second most –unsafe city in India.
  • There has been a 15% rise in the number of crimes registered in Delhi in 2022 in comparison to 2021.
  • The crimes against women in Delhi rose by 2% between the two years, but the reporting of these crimes have also seen a significant increase.
  • In Delhi, there were 1,53,802 arrests in 2021 compared with 1,32,261 in 2020, under special laws and juveniles.

Mumbai: Mumbai is often considered one of the safer cities in India. While it is not completely free from crime, Mumbai’s overall safety situation is relatively better than many other metropolitan areas. The city’s strong sense of community and vigilant citizens contribute to its safer environment. Law enforcement in Mumbai, led by the Mumbai Police, has been proactive in ensuring public safety and maintaining law and order.

Crime Rates in Mumbai:

  • Mumbai’s crime Index in 2023 is at 44.95 while the safety index is slightly higher at 55.05.
  • Mumbai is considered a safe city to be walking alone during daylight, while the safety index of walking alone at night is 54.13, coming to a moderate level of safety.
  • Crime rates in Mumbai have dipped by 14% in 2022 in comparison to 2021, but the overall crime graph of the city has seen an increase in 9%.
  • Following the pandemic, the number of cases of thefts in city has risen three-fold times to 14, 818 to 4,534 in 2021.
  • Unfortunately for the city, theft, attacks, molestation and robbery have seen a 100% increase in 2022.

The End Result Is Really Up To You!

In the timeless tussle of Delhi versus Mumbai, one thing is abundantly clear – both cities boast their own unique charm and spirit, leaving us grappling with an eternal conundrum of choosing the better one. But perhaps, that’s the beauty of it all – the never-ending debate, the friendly banter, and the pride each city’s residents hold for their beloved home.

Delhi, with its historical grandeur and mouthwatering culinary delights, offers an intoxicating blend of tradition and modernity. On the other hand, Mumbai, with its bustling energy and dreams-come-true allure, embraces everyone with open arms.

In the end, the choice between Delhi and Mumbai lies in the eyes of the beholder. Whether you crave the bustling streets of Mumbai or the regal monuments of Delhi, both cities have an undeniable magnetism that captivates hearts.

Christina Joshy

47 Comments
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  1. Mumbai is safe

  2. I have lived in both cities for reasonably long periods and I so long to go back to Mumbai. Delhi depresses me.

  3. Delhi is best

  4. Coming from East a decade back, Delhi has become the place for us now. There is so much charm on the city, which is directly reflected in people’s life Style. My recent visit to Mumbai, turned me down as the city never charmed me. The slums, horrible looking old building, the local train, clumsy houses and so on. So my score is for the city of style.

  5. I am sorry but Delhi’s food is incomparable with Mumbai’s food. Only Pav, Pav Pav 😛

    • There’s a lot more to eat in Mumbai other than pavs

    • sorry but now Mumbai has mixed culture so you can find equally tasty north Indian, South Indian, continental, Chinese and other varieties also and there is no such ranking factor decided in terms of food so you are biased…surely you might be from the north.

  6. Mumbai is always best becozz of its lifestyle,food and a person becomes skillfull in mumbai and learn a lot of things

    • Delhi is really good for business,I don’t know what this data showcasts,Mumbai has more working class people as opposed to Delhi

  7. Well, all the comments which says delhi scored 0 because Delhi is a capital of India and its in a centre. And believe me it’s like a good to live in capital but worse than anything. At last I can say pls make Mumbai capital, you will save Delhi…. Lol.

  8. DELHI IS BEST COMPARE TO MUMBAI.

  9. I am a resident of MumbaI. I had been to Delhi recently. Only Lutyen’s part of Delhi is quite good. But some of the other neighbourhoods like Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazaar, Panchkuiyan etc are worse than Mumbai’s Dharavi. Delhites’ civic sense are no better than the animals. With so many waste bins installed they love to litter the streets. Even though there are public conveninces at regular intervals yet they like to turn the sidewalks into a cesspool of nightsoil and puddle of urine. Fashionable neighbourhoods like Nehru Place and Nehru Enclaves are not spaired.

  10. I have lived in both cities but Overall Delhi is Best in Most of the sense. Standard of Living in Delhi is Far Better. Don’t compare the Food of Mumbai with Delhi. In Mumbai, Food means No Taste. Narrow Roads attracted me in Mumbai, with People Hanging in Trains like ……. Very Crowded. Maximum Slums are there……. Crime is Less in Mumbai. Delhi need to work on That….

    • You missed standard of living..delhi ncr is much much better if compared on same earning.

      Housing- In delhi ncr common folks houses are beautiful and spacious not like congested high rises of mumbai..

      Corruption is more in mumbai than in delhi..
      Delhi – 6
      Mumbai -6

      Mumbai has a capitalist state like structure and delhi has a socialist state touch …
      Means wealth is not distributed evenly in mumbai…

  11. Mumbai comes in 10 top most clean cities in India .mumbai is much better than delhi to live in any ways.so mumbai should be the capital of India.

  12. mumbaikar amhi mumbai is best in every factor the city of dreams every youth comes to struggle here in mumbai

  13. Delhi is best because
    1. Wide Roads.
    2. Better life style than Mumbai.
    3. Less slum than Mumbai.
    4. Bigger than Mumbai so more option for everything.
    5. Delhi is far ahead in historical place than Mumbai.
    6. GDP of 2018 and 2019 as per govt date was more of Delhi than Mumbai.

    After all what will continue in nation all decisions are taken from Delhi. So I can say Delhi is best!

    Or you come to Delhi and feel the difference!

    • Really? I lives in both city Delhi famous for thugs. Frauds and fakes no one have real face and all the material like raste ka maal saste me.
      No hygiene no proper township plan.
      Its never seem like capital.

      • Oh really you think that Mumbai is better than Delhi so also see this:-

        (I)Delhi is far better than Mumbai where the standard of living is concerned
        (ii) And also Delhi is the capital of India and the capital will be the capital.
        (iii) Its Delhi for sure when it comes to Food with lots of variety and flavour
        (iv) In Delhi all the type of religious people are living with love AAKHIR KAR HUM DILWALE JO HAI.
        (v) Delhi is also a metropolitan city NOT LIKE MUMBAI local trains
        (vi) The Quality of living in Delhi is cheaper than in Mumbai
        (vii) Delhi has more IIT industries as compared to Mumbai film Industries.
        (viii) In Delhi we can feel all the seasons – Summer, Winter, Rainy, Spring, Autumn Not like Mumbai only one climate (ix) In Delhi all the coaching, Universities are easily available
        (x) Delhi has the biggest Universities Jawaharlal University, Delhi university etc,

        I think these points are very much to know about the Delhi

    • No delhi was never ahead than Mumbai when it comes to gdp.. google it bro

  14. I like Delhi

  15. Though I live in Delhi still I think that Mumbai is a bit better than Delhi cause Mumbai is less involved in criminal activities as compared to Delhi. Also in Mumbai, there is a very little stereotype. Whereas in Delhi every time a new crime or a rape case flashes on the T.V.The only problem in Delhi is safety(not only for women but for everyone) which is not a minor issue.

    Besides these both the cities are good in their own way.

  16. Delhi is far better for education, accommodation, transportation and food culture quite better than mumbai.. I used to lived in mumbai.. But i feel delhi has different charm.. Delhi colleges… Delhi has most beautiful girls than mumbai…

    • No bro.. Bangalore ranks first and then Mumbai then Delhi..soo Mumbai is better even in education than delhi..if you don’t believe me then google it n you’ll find it

  17. Obviously delhi! No comparision with mumbai.

  18. Mumbai is safe and attractive, when Delhi have too cases of kidnapping and murders.
    So MAYANAGRI is best?

  19. You have not mentioned about the Health care facility. Delhi contains India’s best medical facility. Delhi has most advanced hospitals and experienced doctors. Mumbai is not even in top 5 when it comes to advanced hospitals and reputed doctors.

  20. Delhi is far better than Mumbai because I Delhi there is no region basis discrimination on the other hand in Mumbai mumbaikar has dicrinatory against north people they put maharashtra first then nation.but they know Delhi is the baap of every city India .because Delhi power house of India and whole nation run through Delhi.

    • No you can’t runs India even if it’s the capital..coz Mumbai is economical capital na.. Mumbai contributes 70% to the nation..aur paise se hi sab kuch chalta hai na

      • *mumbai contributes 70% to the nation. now i know that the people of mumbai are so illiterate . stop replying to everyone that mumbai is better instead, start studying . that is a better option .
        fool

  21. Ohh Chaman, Delhi’s Education and healthcare is the best in India.
    In terms of food, Delhi has Chole Bhature which is much much better than Momo aur actually, Vada Pav. Mumbai has no taste.

    Delhi is always the best!!!!

  22. I think both are best in their own way..coz both of them are the main most important cities of India so we should not fight which city is the best..Jai Hind ??

  23. Mumbai is the best Delhi is the worst so bad city does not even have eligibility to become capital

  24. Crime, Pickpocketing, Chain Snatching, eve teasing and Other Frauds are more in Delhi Compare to Other Cities.
    This is My Personal Experience.

  25. Both city are Good but if we compare then New Delhi is the best in education, transportation and healthcare. It has a wider road to ply a vehicle comfortably and plenty of Central Universities and government hospitals but in Mumbai, always feel hectic in this regard esp. In transportation. I always feel resplendent after 11 PM in South Mumbai.

  26. The author is definitely a Mumbaikar…. Food in Mumbai is nothing in comparison to Delhi.
    Further Delhi doesn’t have self-proclaimed thekedaar and hooligans like Shiv Sena.

    Higher accommodation rates and below-average food coupled with the Maratha superiority complex makes Mumbai unlikeable for people who are used to reside in cities….. That’s why Maharashtra is filled with villagers from Up and Bihar….

    Pune is bit better in that aspect.

  27. You spend a month in Mumbai and come back to Delhi, you will feel like a king if you travel in public transport or your own vehicle.
    Delhi is less expensive when a common man eats in an ordinary restaurant.
    I found Mumbai crowded, less clean than Delhi, auto taxis more expensive.
    There is struggle everywhere in local trains, A family waiting for entry in a pizza shop on weekends.
    Everybody is busy earning his livelihood in Mumbai. Delhi appears to have a more relaxed life.

  28. Delhi is the best Delhi’s people love their city

  29. as of now, mumbai is the financial capital but the gdp growth rate of delhi is much bigger than mumbai and in niti aayog webisite it is clearly written that dehi will surpass mumbais gdp near 2025

  30. For me two cities are some good and bad things. I am from Odisha and have recently move to Mumbai from Delhi. I found a typical Mumbaiker thinks this city belongs to them only, every other one who is not a Maharashtrian is a outsider, Which i does not feel even a single day there in Delhi in my entire 18 years stay. Even if Mumbaiker openly deny this but you can feel it in there day to day behavior with you.
    Pointing out this is not a complaint but to say Mumbaiker that we have a very good city like Mumbai where mostly people are very good & helpful only thing is that please don’t separate your self from rest of the country.

  31. Delhi might be better then mumbai . but not save, people won’t like to live in a city where so much crime is there . If delhi is better then why all famous celebrities live in mumbai? who would live in a city where girls won’t feel save , so much crime.
    they should reduce the crimes in delhi.

  32. Delhi is best

  33. no matter how good the transportation or food of delhi might be, I wouldn’t prefer living in a city where i dont feel safe.

  34. Some points of comparison is missing between Delhi and Mumbai
    1.No of parks-Delhi wins hands-down here as Delhi has large no of parks including Lodhi and Buddha Jayanti Park
    2.Cantonment-Delhi has one of the oldest and biggest British Cantonment which
    Mumbai is lacking.
    3.No of Schools-Delhi has more no of schools than Mumbai
    4.Archectural Monuments-Delhi has monuments dated Mughal era but Mumbai’S monuments date back to only 18th century.

  35. Mumbai has better weather, while the food of Delhi is far better compared to Mumbai. So, the score remains the same.

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