7 most expensive residential areas in Kolkata, the cultural capital that houses 69 billionaires

The most expensive residential areas in Kolkata are peppered throughout the length of the cultural capital. From the chic high-rises of New Alipore to the red-brick bungalows of Ballygunge and the storied homes of Salt Lake, the City of Joy is home to 69 billionaires as of 2025. These posh neighborhoods are also home to a host of Tollywood celebrities, politicians and sports. personalities. According to the Hurun India Rich List 2024, Kolkata ranks as the sixth-richest city in the country, with its rich cultural heritage and strategic location making it an important economic center in the eastern part of India. Over the past two years, property prices in the city have witnessed a 13 per cent rise, according to an analysis by NK Realtors, one of the largest real estate consultancy firms in the region, with the average selling price rising from Rs 5,066. square meter in 2022 to Rs 5,728 in 2024. To this end, here is a closer look at some of the most expensive residential areas in the city.

1. Alipore

One of the most affluent neighborhoods in Kolkata, Alipore is known for its chic high-rises, colonial-era mansions and sprawling bungalows. It is also home to a number of business tycoons like Sanjiv Goenka, Chairman of the RP Sanjiv Goenka Group, HM Bangur who is the CEO of Shree Cement and the richest man in the city, and more. The current generation of Burdwan royalty still own substantial properties in the region. With its expansive and well-arranged parks, renowned schools and hospitals, and proximity to the city’s central business district, Alipore is a top real estate choice for the elite.

Adjacent to Alipore is New Alipore, an exclusive neighborhood that cashes in on its exclusivity factor. Its top-tier infrastructure, which includes wide roads, tree-lined streets and seamless connectivity to busy parts of South Kolkata, makes it a top choice for those looking for new and luxurious residences that prioritize privacy, style and convenience.

One of the most centrally located and cosmopolitan areas of the city, Ballygunge’s appeal lies in its blend of old-world charm and modern luxury. The elegant neighborhood houses a wealth of historic bungalows and grand colonial residences, as well as ultra-luxury complexes, a high concentration of exclusive restaurants, shopping malls and cultural institutions. Homes in this area also offer superior amenities and high-end living spaces at a much more affordable price than similar properties in other major Indian cities.

If you’re a film buff who’s visited the City of Joy, you’ve almost certainly visited G8RX+3JC, Bishop Lefroy Rd, the ancient mansion where legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray lived for 22 long years. While the Ray house was declared a Grade 1 heritage building by Kolkata’s civic body, the Victorian streets extend to most of Bhowanipore, where property prices are Rs 13,250 per sq ft, according to 99 acres. Its historical significance and heritage bungalows, as well as prominent location, bustling new cafes, bars and restaurants and exclusive shopping malls, have made it a major draw for elite families, business tycoons and celebrities.

Park Street is not only a commercial hub in the heart of Kolkata; it also offers some of the most premium residential properties in the city. Its collection of the most lively restaurants, bars, cafes, hotels and nightclubs makes it a top location for wealthy individuals seeking a cosmopolitan lifestyle.

Once the heart of colonial Kolkata, Chowringhee is such a posh and exclusive neighborhood that it even had one of the most famous Bengali films (of all time) named after it. From high-end hotels like the Oberoi and acclaimed country clubs to some of the city’s liveliest new establishments like Little Bit Sober and The Conversation Room, property prices in Chowringhee are some of the highest in the city.

One of the biggest features of Salt Lake, apart from its well-planned infrastructure, modern facilities and status as the IT hub, is its storybrooke houses. The elegantly designed residences along the well-planned satellite town are visual delights made even more attractive by the green carpets that envelop them from all sides. The area is home to a number of high-profile residents, including corporate executives, diplomats and technical professionals, who choose the location for its proximity to the city’s major business parks, commercial zones and excellent educational and healthcare institutions.