Social media users across the world are actively comparing the real cost of living in different countries after a viral post by Thomas Sanlis triggered a global conversation. In his detailed breakdown, Sanlis revealed that his monthly expenses in France total around €2,372 (approximately ₹2.5 lakh). Within three days, the post garnered nearly 10 million views on X, formerly Twitter.
France: Rising Grocery Bills and High EMIs
According to Sanlis, his monthly spending includes €1,400 in EMIs, €450 on groceries, €160 on electricity, and other miscellaneous costs. Notably, he pointed out that food prices have increased significantly. “Two years before, my monthly food budget was €250,” he wrote, highlighting inflation concerns.
As a result, users from around the world began sharing their own expense breakdowns.
Singapore: Rent Makes the Difference
For instance, a software engineer named Avery shared that she spends about $1,200 (₹1 lakh) per month in Singapore. Her expenses include S$800 on food, S$300 on outings and shopping, and S$80 on gym and utilities. However, she saves substantially because she lives with her parents and does not pay rent.
In contrast, another Singapore resident revealed that once rent of S$1,500 was added, monthly expenses jumped to over $2,200 (₹2 lakh). Therefore, housing costs dramatically changed the overall picture.
Netherlands: Nearly ₹4.1 Lakh a Month
Meanwhile, Ayda Golahmadi, co-founder of Starnus, shared that she and her partner spend €3,870 (₹4.1 lakh) monthly in the Netherlands. Their expenses include €1,500 on rent, €800 on groceries, €400 on transport, and €400 on social life. Additionally, they pay for utilities, subscriptions, and online purchases.
India: ₹57,000 in a Tier-1 City
On the other hand, Kartikey Singh revealed that he spends $633 (₹57,000) per month in a tier-1 Indian city. His expenses include $167 for shared rent, $167 on fuel, $111 on outings, and $33 for a cook’s salary. Compared to European countries, many users found India’s living costs significantly lower.
