Over the past few years, Kolkata has quietly re-emerged on the radar of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) looking to invest in Indian real estate. Once overshadowed by the rapid growth of cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi-NCR, Kolkata is now seeing renewed interest, particularly from those who have roots in the city but have spent years abroad.
Here’s why NRIs are returning to invest in Kolkata properties:
Many NRIs from Bengal have a strong emotional bond with Kolkata. For them, investing in the city isn’t just a financial decision—it’s about coming back to their roots. Whether it’s buying a retirement home, securing a property for future visits, or simply staying connected with family and culture, real estate becomes a tangible way to maintain that link.
Compared to other metro cities, Kolkata offers far more affordable real estate options. While Mumbai and Bengaluru’s property prices can be daunting, Kolkata’s rates remain reasonable, even in prime areas. This price-to-value ratio is a major draw for NRIs who want to invest without overstretching.
Kolkata’s infrastructure is finally catching up. Metro expansions, new flyovers, and better roads are changing the cityscape. Areas like New Town and Rajarhat are developing into modern hubs with IT parks, shopping complexes, hospitals, and educational institutions. This infrastructure growth is reassuring for investors looking at long-term returns.
With the rise of the gig economy, startups, and an influx of professionals, the demand for rental properties in certain pockets of Kolkata has grown. NRIs see this as an opportunity to earn passive income, especially in areas close to tech and business hubs.
The real estate market in India has become more transparent post-RERA (Real Estate Regulation and Development Act). Add to this the ease of digital transactions, online property management services, and legal support for NRIs, and it’s never been simpler to buy, sell, or rent property from abroad.
The COVID-19 pandemic changed how people view homes. Many NRIs who faced travel restrictions or extended stays abroad started valuing the idea of a base in India. Kolkata, with its familiar lifestyle, culture, and relatively low cost of living, became a logical choice
Top national and local developers are launching premium and mid-segment projects in Kolkata. NRIs are now spoiled for choice, with properties offering better design, amenities, and community living experiences than ever before.
Kolkata is no longer just a nostalgic destination—it’s evolving into a smart investment. For NRIs, the mix of emotional ties, rising infrastructure, affordable prices, and better returns is making Kolkata real estate a compelling bet once again.