Bangalore is India's third most expensive city to buy property in. Rates per square foot range from Rs 4,000 ($48) to Rs 12,000 ($146). The ads for these properties are often so compelling, it can inspire even a millennial like me to consider spending money I don't have. Take a look at these ads - a climbing wall? a mini forest? - it's the 'added benefits' that call out to you.
However, there are a few benefits that governments provide for free - such as parks or lakes - which are considered public goods and can add to the appeal or price tag of a locality. Since I cannot afford to buy property, I have decided to conduct a visual thought experiment of the spread of public goods across the city.
Avg rate per sq ft (in Rs)
Avg rate per sq ft (in Rs)
Avg rate per sq ft (in Rs)
$1= Rs 81.99
$1= Rs 81.99
$1= Rs 81.99
While a higher price tag grants you parks and playgrounds - the fringes of the city seem to have more public goods than the centre. With greater infrastructure for safety, transport and education - localities that are affordable actually offer greater benefits.