Choosing between a 3 BHK and 4 BHK apartment is an important choice for homebuyers in India in 2025–2026, especially as families are getting larger, more people are working from home, and city living needs more space.
In Mangaluru, the average price for a 3 BHK is around 1.2–1.8 Crore (or 5,500–7,500 per square foot), and a 4 BHK can cost between 1.6–2.5 Crore (or 6,000–8,500 per square foot). Larger units tend to appreciate more (about 12–15% year-over-year in premium areas according to Savills India 2025), but 3 BHK units are more affordable and easier to sell later. Which one is best depends on your family, budget, and future plans.
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Cost and Affordability Comparison
In 2025, a 3 BHK apartment usually costs between 1–2 Crore across India, with monthly maintenance charges of 3–6 per square foot and lower utility bills due to its compact size. A 4 BHK, being 20–50% larger, starts from 1.5–3 Crore or more. It also involves higher upfront costs like GST and registration fees (5–6%). Ongoing expenses are also higher for 4 BHKs, with maintenance charges of 5–8 per square foot, plus higher electricity and water costs.
In Mangaluru, a 3 BHK is a better option for first-time buyers or small families.
A 4 BHK, on the other hand, is more common in high-demand areas and might offer better value per square foot in premium projects. There is also stronger appreciation for 4 BHK units (up to 15% year-over-year in Kadri versus 10% for 3 BHKs, according to local trends). Also, home loans play a role—monthly EMIs for a 3 BHK could be under 60,000–80,000, while those for a 4 BHK can go up to 80,000–1.2 Lakh. Make sure your income can handle these payments before you choose.
Space, Layout, and Functionality Differences
A 3 BHK usually has three bedrooms, a living and dining area, a kitchen, and 2–3 bathrooms (900–1,300 square feet carpet area).
This is ideal for small to medium-sized families of 4–5 members. The layout is more efficient, with open-plan living and compact storage, making it perfect for urban minimalism.
A 4 BHK has an extra bedroom, often a study, guest room, or home office.
It typically has 3–4 bathrooms and a larger kitchen. This added space allows for versatility, such as turning the fourth bedroom into a remote workspace, a hobby room, or for guests. In Mangaluru’s humid climate, a 4 BHK unit offers better ventilation and cross-breeze, reducing the need for air conditioning. However, a 3 BHK feels more cozy and easier to maintain, while a 4 BHK is better suited for families who like to entertain or have more members.
Suitability for Family Size and Lifestyle Needs
A 3 BHK works well for smaller families (4–6 members), young couples planning to have children, or individuals who need a home office.
It can also help family members stay close, but it might feel cramped with teenagers or in-laws.
A 4 BHK is better for larger or multi-generational families (6–8+ members).
It offers more privacy for elders, dedicated rooms for kids, and space for guests. With 60% of urban professionals working from home (according to Deloitte India 2025), a 4 BHK fits well for having a separate workspace. In Mangaluru, where joint families are common, 4 BHK units match cultural expectations, while 3 BHK units are more appealing for NRIs or retirees looking for simplicity.
Maintenance, Resale Value, and Long-Term Costs
The maintenance cost of a 3 BHK is lower (an average of 4,000–6,000 per month), with easier cleaning and fewer utilities.
A 4 BHK is more expensive to maintain (6,000–9,000 per month), but some premium projects offer better facilities, which can help offset the costs.
In terms of resale, 4 BHK units in high-demand areas tend to appreciate more (by 15–20% according to Anarock Q3 2025) since they attract richer buyers.
3 BHK units, on the other hand, sell faster because they appeal to a wider range of buyers and are more affordable. Long-term, 4 BHK units offer rental returns of 3.5–5% in premium areas, compared to 4–6% for 3 BHK units (according to Global Property Guide 2025), but keep in mind that 4 BHKs also come with higher property taxes and insurance costs.
Current Trends in Mangaluru and India
In 2025–2026, 3 BHK units are the biggest sellers in the middle market (making up 55% of sales according to Knight Frank), driven by affordability and the trend of smaller families.
4 BHK units are growing in premium areas (by 20–25%) thanks to demand from NRIs, HNIs, and the need for more space due to hybrid work (Reuters 2025 forecast predicts a 7% price increase nationwide, with a sharper rise of 10–12% in Tier-2 cities like Mangaluru).
Kadri and Bejai areas show high demand for 4 BHK units, with rents ranging from 35,000–55,000 per month.
On the other hand, Derebail and Kankanady areas seem to favor 3 BHK units for their value. There’s a growing trend towards low-density projects with good amenities—4 BHK for luxury, 3 BHK for entry-level options.
Conclusion: Pick Based on Your Priorities
A 3 BHK is great for affordability, efficiency, and easier resale, especially for smaller families.
A 4 BHK is better for more space, flexibility, and stronger price increases, suited for larger families. In Mangaluru, both options are strong, but it’s important to think about your budget, family size, and future needs carefully.
Udbhav Chinmaya in Kadri offers both 3 and 4 BHK units in a limited 40-unit gated community—spacious layouts, top-notch amenities, RERA registration, and great connectivity for long-term value.
Ready to choose the perfect size for your family?
Enquire about Udbhav Chinmaya today for floor plans, pricing (starting from 1.48 Crore*), and a 360-degree virtual tour. Booking starts with just 1 Lakh.
Contact the team now—find the perfect fit for your family.
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