Colombo, Sri Lanka

In 2026, a single person living in Colombo needs approximately LKR 92,965/month, covering rent, groceries, transport and utilities. A family of 3–4 typically spends around LKR 185,565/month. Colombo is considered a relatively expensive city by global standards.

A 1-bedroom apartment in Colombo costs approximately LKR 59,417/month in 2026. A 3-bedroom apartment runs around LKR 114,264/month. Rent has changed +5.8% vs 2025.

Monthly grocery costs for one person in Colombo are approximately LKR 20,568 in 2026. This covers basic supermarket shopping including food and household essentials.

A monthly public transport pass in Colombo costs LKR 3,199 in 2026, covering unlimited bus, metro and tram travel within the city.

Monthly utility costs in Colombo average LKR 5,942 in 2026, covering electricity, heating/cooling, water and internet for a standard apartment.

Colombo is located in Sri Lanka (Asia). With a 1-bed rent of LKR 59,417/month and total single-person expenses around LKR 92,965/month, it is relatively expensive by global standards.

A typical restaurant meal for one person in Colombo costs approximately LKR 480 in 2026. Budget around LKR 3,839/month if dining out a few times a week.

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.

To live comfortably in Colombo in 2026, a single person needs approximately LKR 92,965/month. This covers rent (LKR 59,417), groceries (LKR 20,568), transport (LKR 3,199), utilities (LKR 5,942) and dining out occasionally. A family of 3–4 should budget around LKR 185,565/month.