Lucknow is the capital of Uttar Pradesh known for its cultural heritage and historical significance. The city is known as the “City of Nawabs” because of its association with the Nawabs of Awadh. Lucknow is a center of art, music, literature, and Kathak Dance. If you have ever been in contact with a resident of Lucknow, you will be pleased with their warm and welcoming nature. Lucknow is famous for its Awadhi cuisine and some mouthwatering delicacies include biryani, Galouti Kebab, kulfi, and malai makkhan. The city has a growing economy with multiple government employment opportunities. The city has good connectivity and transportation facilities to roam and explore its many attractions. But if you are moving here, then explore something more about it –

Cost of living
The city offers an affordable cost of living compared to many cities in India. The housing options in Lucknow range from budget-friendly apartments to luxury villas. The rental cost in the city is generally lower than in other cities like Mumbai, Delhi, etc. Most of the utilities in the city are affordable and transportation is reasonable. Summers can be scorching and winters can be extreme. The cost of food has increased in years, but you can still find some inexpensive options in the city. Here is the breakdown of the cost of living in Lucknow –
Description | Min Cost (INR) | Max Cost (INR) |
---|---|---|
Rent (1 BHK Apartment)
|
₹10,000 | ₹25,000 |
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Gas)
|
₹500 | ₹2,500 |
Groceries
|
₹8,000 | ₹12,000 |
Internet
|
₹700 | ₹1,200 |
Eating Out (4 times a month)
|
₹2,000 | ₹4,000 |
Transportation (Public)
|
₹1,500 | ₹3,000 |
Fitness Club Membership
|
₹1,000 | ₹2,000 |
Entertainment (Movies, etc.)
|
₹1,000 | ₹2,000 |
Job Market & Economy
The economy and job market of Lucknow have been steadily growing in recent years. Being the capital of Uttar Pradesh, the city has abundant government job opportunities. The competition can be high in sectors like government and IT. If you are moving to Lucknow for a job opportunity you will need to have some specific skills and qualifications.
Several industries are thriving in Lucknow, some of them are –
- Government
- IT Sector
- Manufacturing
- Education
- Healthcare
- Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
Education system
The city has a well-established education system with both government and private schools. Several schools in Lucknow are operated by the government and offer free education to the students. Several moderate and high-budget private schools are also available in the city. These schools provide better facilities, small class sizes, and an extensive range of extracurricular activities. Most schools in the city follow the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) or the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE) curriculum.
The city has several government, private, and professional colleges and universities.
Several schools from different affiliations in the city, but only a few of them ranked highest. Here is the list of top schools in the city –
- La Martiniere College
- City Montessori School
- St. Joseph’s College
- The Cathedral School
- Lucknow Public School
Before moving to Lucknow, explore these colleges and universities-
- University of Lucknow
- Lucknow University
- Central University of Lucknow
- Indian Institute of Management Lucknow (IIML)
- King George’s Medical University (KGMU)
Healthcare facilities
Lucknow has a well-developed healthcare system with prestigious medical colleges and universities. The city has both government and private hospitals. Most hospitals offer various medical services including outpatient clinics and emergency services. Lucknow has a medical university, a civil hospital, and a district hospital.
These hospitals offer quality healthcare with advanced facilities and services. The healthcare services are affordable in government hospitals compared to private hospitals. The healthcare in the city is accessible but challenging in rural areas. There are specialty hospitals in the city including cardiology, oncology, pediatrics, and more.
Some of the best government and private hospitals in the city are-
- King George’s Medical University (KGMU)
- Civil Hospital
- Max Super Speciality Hospital
- Fortis Hospital
- Apollo Hospital
- SGPGIMS
- Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital
Top Locations to Live in Lucknow
There are various residential areas in Lucknow and each location has a unique charm. Here is a list of the best locations to live in Lucknow –
- Hazratganj –
This is a bustling commercial location with a mix of old and new buildings. The area has plenty of shops, entertainment options, and shops. - Gomti Nagar –
This location is a well-planned residential township with modern infrastructure, green spaces, and wide roads. This location is highly preferred by professionals and families. - Sushant Golf City –
This is a high-end residential area with modern amenities and a golf course. This is a popular choice for people who prefer a luxurious lifestyle. - Aminabad –
This location is a part of the old city of Lucknow which is a popular commercial hub This is not fit for residential purposes because of a diverse range of products. - Alambagh –
This is a popular residential area which is a suburb with a peaceful and residential atmosphere. If you move here, you will have good schools, parks, and temples nearby.
Traffic and Transportation
The city offers a mix of both public and private transportation options. There is a network of bus services in the city operated by Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC). Other public transportation options in Lucknow are the metro and auto-rickshaw. The city also has human-pulled rickshaws and taxis for a comfortable commute.
The city faces traffic congestion during peak hours and the road infrastructure is improving. The city follows traffic rules to avoid reckless driving.
Climate & weather
The city experiences a tropical climate, hot summers, distinct monsoon seasons, and cool winters. The weather is pleasant during monsoon and winter which makes it a right place to visit.
Things to do in Lucknow
Lucknow is filled with historical and cultural heritages which are worth exploring-
- Visit Bara Imambara and Chota Imambara which has a magnificent Shia mosque and palace complex known for intricate carvings and architecture.
- Plan a trip to Rumi Darwaza and Lucknow Residency.
- Explore a variety of plants and flowers at the Botanical Garden.
- Shopping lovers can visit markets in Hazratganj, Aminabad, and Lucnkow Mall.
- Foodies can explore local cuisine at restaurants like Tunday Kababi, Awadh Hotel, and Dastarkhwan.
- Go for a boat ride on the Gomti River and enjoy the scenic beauty.
Pros and Cons of Living in Lucknow
When you move to a new city, learn about the pros and cons of it. This will help you to prepare for upcoming challenges.
Pros of living in Lucknow | Cons of living in Lucknow |
---|---|
Generally offers lower cost of living | Traffic congestion can be a problem during peak hours |
The city is rich in history and culture- Nawabi heritage | Summers can be extremely hot |
Lucknow offers a significant number of government job opportunities | The city experiences air pollution during winter months |
The residents of Lucknow are known for their welcoming and warm nature | Nightlife in the city is relatively limited |
The city has several good educational institutions | There are challenges in water supply and electricity |
FAQs about Lucknow
1. Which location is best for living in Lucknow?
The best locations to find home in Lucknow include Hazratganj, Aliganj, Gomti Nagar, and Alambagh.
2. Is it easy to find a job in Lucknow?
The job market is growing in Lucknow with ample opportunities.