Magic Mumbai: Why it’s Enticing and Why it's Not!
Mumbai, the city that never sleeps, the financial powerhouse of India and one of the biggest job markets in the country. There are many reasons why people move to the city in droves. The number of opportunities, the sheer vibe of the city, its fast-paced nature, and the hope of a better future entice thousands of people to flock to this city.
But every city, large or small, has its own benefits and drawbacks, and if you are planning to move to Mumbai, you might as well take a look at all of them before packing your bags and heading out so that you don't get caught off guard and if you haven’t made that decision already, this just might help you make your mind up, one way or the other.
To help you understand what’s so great about this city and what’s not, I have compiled a list of the pros and cons of moving to Mumbai.
Pros
Lots of Opportunities
With a population of over 20 million people, it's no wonder that Mumbai has some of the best job opportunities in India. The city is home to many large companies from around the world, as well as countless small businesses that offer great opportunities for anyone looking for work. Whether you are a techie or a designer, there is something for everybody here.
Inexpensive Street Food
Food in metros always tends to be expensive. If you only consider fine dining restaurants, then Mumbai isn’t all that different. Fortunately, though, the city has more to offer than just that. Its exquisite array of street food delicacies will not only win you over with their taste but will keep your pockets heavy. You can literally have a meal for less than ₹40 and be completely satisfied with it.
The Vibe of the City
One of the greatest things about Mumbai is its impeccable vibe. It is something akin to New York. It seems alive, buzzing. The city never seems to sit still. It is always on the move, always high on energy, and it can be extremely addictive to those who live there. It is something that you won’t find in very few cities across the globe, let alone in India.
Lots of Entertainment and Cultural Opportunities
One of the biggest draws of living in Mumbai is its culture. From its bustling streets lined with food stalls and street markets to its historically significant architecture, there is never a dull moment in this cosmopolitan city. Plus, there are plenty of festivals throughout the year that will keep you entertained! On top of this, it has an epic nightlife scene and entertainment hubs that can keep you occupied for a few lifetimes.
Cons
High Overall Living Expenses
Although street food is light on your pocket and public transport follows suit in that regard, pretty much everything else is expensive in Mumbai. The rent and land prices are through the roof, the groceries are expensive, and leisure and entertainment activities cost you a lot. Accommodation costs, in particular, will drain your wealth quickly.
Bad Traffic
The traffic is bad in Mumbai, like hilariously bad. It is not the sheer volume of traffic that makes it bad but the fact that it is bad ALL THE TIME! There are no peak hours in the city unless its somewhere between 11 PM and 5 AM, every hour is a peak hour in Mumbai. Although Mumbai local trains help you bypass that traffic, that commute is a hair-raising experience on its own.
Over Crowded
As mentioned previously, Mumbai is home to more than 20 million people, making it one of the most densely populated cities on earth, which means crowded streets and public spaces during peak hours – something that can be overwhelming for those who are not used to it!
Extreme Rains During Monsoons
Mumbai weather, in general, is quite unfavourable. While it is quite cool in the winter, with pleasant sea breezes punctuating the din of the city, it is hot and humid the rest of the time. The deal breaker, however, is the monsoon. The city is hammered by incessant rains that disrupt everything causing floods and chaos every year. If you aren’t a fan of rain, then you might want to sit this one out.
Conclusion
When weighing up whether or not moving to Mumbai is right for you, there are several factors that should be taken into consideration, such as expenses, employment opportunities, cost of living, transportation system, traffic and population density.
Despite drawbacks, living in this vibrant city can also bring lots of joy and opportunity - making it an ideal destination for those who want an exciting new life adventure! All-in-all, by weighing up all these pros and cons carefully, you'll be able to make a decision about whether or not moving to Mumbai is right for you.
