Kolkata Ranks 3rd Among Richest Cities in India 2025

Kolkata has once again proven its economic significance by ranking as the 3rd richest city in India in 2025, with an estimated GDP of ~₹12.45 lakh crore — standing just behind Mumbai and Delhi NCR.

Once known as the industrial capital of India, Kolkata’s journey over the decades has been a mix of challenges, transformations, and silent resilience. While many metros raced ahead in the IT revolution, Kolkata chose a more balanced path, strengthening its core while gradually embracing new-age industries.

The Economic Pillars Powering Kolkata

Kolkata’s economy today is driven by a strong mix of traditional industries and modern sectors:

• Finance & Banking: Home to major public and private sector banks, insurance companies, and financial institutions, Kolkata continues to be a major financial centre in Eastern India.
   
• Manufacturing & MSMEs: From jute and textiles to leather, engineering goods, and FMCG, Kolkata’s manufacturing ecosystem still supports lakhs of livelihoods.
   
• Port & Logistics: The Kolkata Port remains a critical trade gateway for Eastern and North-Eastern India, supporting cargo movement, exports, and industrial supply chains.
   
• Education & Talent: With some of India’s oldest universities, engineering institutes, and research centres, the city continues to supply skilled talent to the country and the world.

A City Embracing the New Economy

Over the last decade, Kolkata has quietly but steadily stepped into the future:

The rise of IT parks, software development hubs, data centres, and co-working spaces is reshaping the city’s commercial real estate landscape. Areas like Salt Lake and New Town are seeing increased activity from tech companies, startups, and global firms setting up their back offices and delivery centres.

Infrastructure upgrades, metro expansion, better road connectivity, and smart city projects are further strengthening Kolkata’s long-term growth story.

More Than Numbers, It’s a Comeback Story

Kolkata’s position among the top three richest cities is not just about GDP figures. It reflects the city’s ability to adapt, survive, and evolve.

From being the heart of India’s industrial revolution to becoming a balanced economic powerhouse of Eastern India, Kolkata is scripting a new chapter, one that blends heritage with ambition.

The Road Ahead

As investments in technology, real estate, infrastructure, and manufacturing continue to rise, Kolkata’s role in India’s economic future is only set to grow stronger.

The City of Joy is not just preserving its legacy; it is preparing for leadership.

At Kolkata Calling, we celebrate this journey of growth, resilience, and optimism.