From Pune to Indore: See which Tier-2 cities rank among India’s top 10 for living

For a long time, cities like Delhi and Bengaluru were considered among the best places to live and work in India. But things are changing. According to the Economic Survey 2025–26, smaller cities are now making life easier for residents.

These cities are less crowded, have better services, and local authorities can manage them more efficiently. This makes daily life smoother and less stressful.

Which cities are doing well

The Ease of Living Index 2025, made by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, shows the cities that are easiest to live in. The top ones are Pune, Navi Mumbai, Greater Mumbai, Tirupati, Chandigarh, Thane, Raipur, Indore, Vijayawada, and Bhopal.

Most of these are Tier-2 or newer cities. They have jobs, basic infrastructure, and less crowding than big metros. That gives people a better daily experience.

What the index looks at

The index doesn’t focus on how rich a city is. It looks at things people need every day: schools, hospitals, water, toilets, waste collection, transport, safety, and parks, according to a report by Financial Express.

In short, it checks how easy it is to live in a city day to day.

Why smaller cities have an edge

Smaller cities are easier to manage. Roads and public services are less crowded, and city offices can deliver services faster. This means residents spend less time stuck in traffic or waiting for things to get done.

Reforms helping people

The government has made some rule changes that make life simpler. According to the report, the survey added that the Jan Vishwas Act removed criminal penalties for small mistakes in some laws. That makes dealing with the authorities less stressful.

A task force is also helping simplify rules for land, buildings, and utilities so that approvals happen faster.

Digital systems and better infrastructure

Digital land records and property identifiers are helping reduce disputes. Infrastructure programs like the Smart Cities Mission, Jal Jeevan Mission, and PMGSY roads are improving water supply, roads, schools, hospitals, and markets. Housing schemes under PMAY are also giving people homes with basic amenities.
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