Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Jul 11: While Bengaluru continues to be regarded as Karnataka's most developed city, Mangaluru is rapidly emerging as one of the state's fastest-growing urban centres. Driven by investments, an eco-friendly lifestyle, and expanding employment opportunities, the coastal city is increasingly being recognised as one of the most liveable cities in South India.

According to 2025 statistics, Dakshina Kannada is among Karnataka's wealthiest districts, with a per capita GDP of Rs 6.69 lac. Excluding Bengaluru, this is the highest per capita income in the state. The district's robust economic growth has been fuelled by its thriving trade, industry, education, and healthcare sectors.

The New Mangalore Port is one of the country's major container terminals and accounts for a significant share of India's coffee exports. Mangaluru has also witnessed remarkable growth in the information technology sector. IT revenue, which stood at around Rs 300 crore in 2018, crossed Rs 2,500 crore by 2024.

Several leading IT companies, including Infosys, Cognizant, and Mphasis, have established operations in the city. Industry experts attribute Mangaluru's growing appeal to operational costs that are 25 to 30 per cent lower than those in Bengaluru, making it an attractive destination for businesses.

The city's real estate market has also remained stable, with a large number of people from Dakshina Kannada working in Gulf countries playing a key role in property investments. Residential property values in Mangaluru are witnessing an annual appreciation of around 8 to 12 per cent.

With relatively uncongested roads, a well-developed healthcare system, and improving infrastructure, Mangaluru continues to strengthen its reputation as a highly liveable city. Given its sustained economic momentum and increasing investments, the city is widely expected to emerge as Karnataka's next major economic powerhouse in the years ahead.