PG vs Flat Sharing Calculator
Compare PG accommodation with flat sharing. Find out which option is better for your budget and lifestyle.
🏢
Flat Wins!
Flat sharing is more economical
For 12 months, flat sharing saves you money. Worth it for the freedom and privacy.
PG Accommodation
Rs 12,000
per month
Deposit: Rs 12,000
Total for stay: Rs 1.56 L
Flat Sharing
Rs 19,500
per month
Deposit: Rs 60,000
Total for stay: Rs 2.94 L
Flat saves Rs 500/mo
Break-even: 6 months
⚖ Factor Comparison
📈 Cost Over Time
How to Use the PG vs Flat Sharing Calculator
- Select Your City: Choose your city to get relevant cost benchmarks.
- Set Stay Duration: Enter how long you plan to stay. This significantly impacts which option is better.
- Enter PG Details: Add the PG rent, deposit, and select included amenities like food and laundry.
- Enter Flat Details: Add your share of rent, deposit, and all additional expenses like food, utilities, and housekeeping.
- Compare Results: See the total cost comparison, break-even point, and factor comparison to make your decision.
PG vs Flat Sharing: What to Consider
When PG is Better
- Short Stays (3-6 months): Lower security deposits mean less capital locked up
- New to the City: No hassle of finding roommates, furniture, or setting up home
- Busy Professionals: Food and cleaning included saves time
- Limited Budget for Upfront: PG deposits are usually 1-2 months vs 3-6 months for flats
- Want Flexibility: Easier to leave with 1 month notice
When Flat Sharing is Better
- Long Stays (1+ years): Lower monthly costs add up over time
- Value Privacy: Your own room with proper door locks
- Have Guests Often: No visitor restrictions or timing rules
- Like Cooking: Full kitchen access vs PG food
- Night Owl/Party Person: No curfews or late-night rules
Hidden Costs to Consider
For Flat Sharing:
- Furniture (bed, mattress, wardrobe) - Rs 15,000-40,000 initially
- Kitchen setup (utensils, appliances) - Rs 5,000-15,000
- Brokerage (1-2 months rent)
- Painting charges when leaving
For PG:
- Food may not suit your taste - you might end up eating out
- AC/Non-AC room price difference
- Single vs sharing room
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PG or flat sharing cheaper?
It depends on the city and stay duration. PG often includes food and has lower security deposits, making it cheaper for short stays (3-6 months). Flat sharing becomes economical for longer stays (1+ years) due to lower monthly costs, despite higher upfront deposits.
What is typically included in PG rent?
PG rent typically includes: furnished room, electricity, water, WiFi, room cleaning, and often 2-3 meals per day. Some PGs also include laundry services and AC. Always confirm what's included before booking.
How much security deposit for PG vs flat?
PG security deposits are usually 1-2 months rent (Rs 10,000-30,000). Flat sharing requires 3-6 months rent as deposit (Rs 30,000-1,00,000+). This is a major factor for short-term stays.
Can I have visitors in PG vs flat?
Most PGs have strict visitor policies - no overnight guests, visiting hours (usually 10am-9pm), and opposite gender visitor restrictions. Flat sharing typically has no such rules - you're just sharing rent with roommates.
What's the notice period for leaving?
PGs usually require 15-30 days notice. Flat sharing depends on your rental agreement - typically 1-3 months. Breaking a flat lease early may mean losing part of your deposit.