Colombo, Sri Lanka
Cost of living · 2022 · Asia
Rent trend in Colombo (2022–2026)
Cost breakdown in Colombo (2022)
Estimated monthly budget in Colombo
Based on 2022 data. Includes rent, groceries, transport, utilities and occasional dining out.
Cost comparison — cities in Sri Lanka (2022)
| City | 1-Bed Rent | Groceries | Transport | Utilities | vs Colombo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colombo | LKR 45,760 | LKR 15,840 | LKR 2,464 | LKR 4,576 | — |
| Kandy | LKR 35,200 | LKR 13,200 | LKR 2,112 | LKR 3,696 | -23.1% |
Frequently asked questions
What is the cost of living in Colombo in 2022?
In 2022, a single person living in Colombo needs approximately LKR 71,597/month, covering rent, groceries, transport and utilities. A family of 3–4 typically spends around LKR 142,912/month. Colombo is considered a relatively expensive city by global standards.
How much is rent in Colombo in 2022?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Colombo costs approximately LKR 45,760/month in 2022. A 3-bedroom apartment runs around LKR 88,000/month.
How much do groceries cost in Colombo?
Monthly grocery costs for one person in Colombo are approximately LKR 15,840 in 2022. This covers basic supermarket shopping including food and household essentials.
What does public transport cost in Colombo?
A monthly public transport pass in Colombo costs LKR 2,464 in 2022, covering unlimited bus, metro and tram travel within the city.
How much are utilities in Colombo?
Monthly utility costs in Colombo average LKR 4,576 in 2022, covering electricity, heating/cooling, water and internet for a standard apartment.
Is Colombo expensive to live in?
Colombo is located in Sri Lanka (Asia). With a 1-bed rent of LKR 45,760/month and total single-person expenses around LKR 71,597/month, it is relatively expensive by global standards.
How much does eating out cost in Colombo?
A typical restaurant meal for one person in Colombo costs approximately LKR 370 in 2022. Budget around LKR 2,957/month if dining out a few times a week.
How have living costs in Colombo changed over time?
LifeIndexed tracks cost of living data for Colombo from 2022 to 2026. 1-bed rent has increased by 29.8% over this period (from LKR 45,760 in 2022 to LKR 59,417 in 2026). Use the year tabs above to compare costs across years.
What is the monthly budget needed to live comfortably in Colombo?
To live comfortably in Colombo in 2022, a single person needs approximately LKR 71,597/month. This covers rent (LKR 45,760), groceries (LKR 15,840), transport (LKR 2,464), utilities (LKR 4,576) and dining out occasionally. A family of 3–4 should budget around LKR 142,912/month.