Living Alone: Is It Cheaper to Eat Out or Cook at Home?

Deciding whether to eat out or cook at home when living alone can be a complex decision influenced by various factors. Let's explore the nuances and considerations that can help guide your choice.

Cost Considerations: Ingredients and Utilities

Cooking at Home: Buying ingredients in bulk can be cost-effective, but perishable items may go to waste if not used quickly. Planning meals and minimizing waste can significantly reduce costs. On the other hand, utilities such as gas or electricity used for cooking are typically lower than the cost of dining out regularly.

Convenience and Time Savings

Eating Out: Dining at restaurants can be pricey, especially for high-end establishments or frequent takeout orders. However, the time and effort saved can be invaluable, especially for busy professionals or students.

Personal Preferences and Occasions

Ultimately, the choice often comes down to personal preferences, lifestyle, and the frequency with which one chooses to dine out. For convenience or special occasions, eating out can be a reasonable choice, while long-term cost savings may be achieved by cooking at home.

A Personal Perspective

From my personal experience, the cost and convenience of dining habits vary significantly depending on where you live and the available food options. For instance, before moving to Norway, I lived in India where I taught at a school attended by students from financially weaker backgrounds. These students were often healthier and more conscious about their meals while living at home, despite the limited choice of nutritious options.

One of my students' best options was to buy 10-20 rupees worth of food daily from roadside shops, which provided quick and filling meals but were not very healthy due to the unknown quality of ingredients and the heavy use of spices and oil. In contrast, eating at healthy, hygienic restaurants would cost more, but it was practical for those who did so frequently to save time.

In India, busy professionals often opted for tiffin services, where a balanced meal was delivered daily for just 60 rupees. This was comparable to the cost of buying and assembling the ingredients at home. However, the quality and taste of tiffin services improved over time, and they became a preferred option.

Life in Norway

Now residing in Norway, ready-made meals at grocery stores offer the cheapest option for convenience. However, the taste can be a turn-off, and restaurants are notoriously expensive. I limit my dining out to once or twice a month, preferring healthier vegetarian sushi options. Moreover, I often cook breakfast at home, crafting meals that cater to my taste and nutritional needs.

Current Weekly Routine

My daily routine can influence my choice. On weekdays, I often buy lunch at the university due to its affordability and appealing nutritionally balanced meals. I cook breakfast most mornings and sometimes have to fast if I leave early for morning classes, opting for a sandwich with yogurt or a fruit. On weekends, I tend to cook lunch at home when I have more free time.

For dinner, I rarely cook, as all my flatmates are cooking simultaneously, leaving me no space in the kitchen. I opt for salads or pre-made items that don't require cooking, such as bread and dahi wada, or simply skip dinner altogether, often settling for tea or warm milk before bed.

Ultimately, the decision to eat out or cook at home should align with your financial situation, dietary preferences, and lifestyle. Considering the multifaceted factors can help you make a more informed and cost-effective choice.