Three cities—Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Delhi-NCR—are leading the charge, showcasing impressive growth in real estate and infrastructure that is driving the nation’s urban future. A comprehensive report by Knight Frank India highlights these cities as prime examples of how urban centres are shaping India’s economy and development across various parameters.
Among the cities analysed, Hyderabad emerges as the fastest-growing, with robust gains in both real estate and infrastructure. The city’s real estate market is flourishing, with residential launches growing at a 10% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the past decade. In 2023, residential prices rose by 11%, reflecting strong demand from both investors and homebuyers. The city’s appeal is further strengthened by significant investments in transport infrastructure, including metro expansions and enhanced connectivity. Hyderabad’s socio-economic profile is also witnessing an upswing, with a rising number of ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) and high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) calling the city home, buoyed by the government’s progressive policies.
In second place, Bengaluru continues to thrive as a tech and entrepreneurial hub. Known for its strong business ecosystem and innovative spirit, Bengaluru boasts a 76% workforce participation rate, with one of the lowest unemployment rates at 1.8%. The city’s real estate sector is also seeing strong demand, driven by high residential sales and a growing number of commercial occupiers. Despite recent challenges faced by its start-up ecosystem, Bengaluru remains a stable and attractive destination for both domestic and international investments, thanks to its diverse business landscape.
Delhi-NCR, the region encompassing the National Capital, is leading the charge in terms of physical infrastructure and governance. The region is home to India’s largest metro network, the Delhi Metro, spanning 350 km and serving over 6.8 million daily commuters. With the addition of key infrastructure projects such as the Eastern Peripheral Expressway, Delhi-NCR’s connectivity is continuously improving. The region also boasts the highest availability of green spaces and open areas among the six cities analysed. Advanced healthcare facilities and e-governance initiatives, such as the Delhi Government Services Portal, further add to the city’s appeal, improving the quality of life and making public services more efficient and accessible. The report underscores the remarkable growth trajectory of India’s urban centres. Hyderabad stands out for its rapid real estate and infrastructure development, Bengaluru continues to attract talent with its tech-driven economy, and Delhi-NCR leads with its superior governance and connectivity. These cities are not only setting benchmarks for India’s urban future but also positioning themselves as global centres for investment, talent, and development.