Domestic Worker Salary Mumbai: What You Should Pay in 2025

When you hire a domestic worker, a person hired to perform household tasks like cleaning, cooking, and childcare. Also known as housemaid, it’s one of the most common support roles in Mumbai homes. But how much should you actually pay? The answer isn’t simple—it depends on hours, experience, duties, and whether they live in or out. Many families guess, pay too little, or overpay because they don’t know the real market. You’re not alone. In Mumbai, domestic workers make up a huge part of the informal economy, and wages vary wildly from one neighborhood to the next.

Most full-time maids in Mumbai earn between ₹18,000 and ₹30,000 a month, but if you need someone for 24-hour care, live-in help who manages meals, cleaning, and sometimes elder or child care around the clock, expect to pay ₹35,000 to ₹50,000. For part-time help—say, 4 to 6 hours a day, 5 days a week—you’ll typically pay ₹800 to ₹1,500 per day. These aren’t random numbers. They’re based on what families are actually paying in 2025, after inflation and rising living costs. And don’t forget: you’re not just paying for labor—you’re paying for reliability, trust, and consistency. A good domestic worker who shows up every day, knows your routines, and doesn’t need constant supervision is worth more than someone cheaper who doesn’t stick around.

What else affects pay? experience, how long a worker has been doing household tasks professionally matters. A maid with 5+ years in Mumbai homes, especially in upscale areas like Bandra or Andheri, will charge more. Special skills like cooking regional cuisine, caring for infants or elderly family members, or managing laundry and ironing efficiently also raise the rate. Location plays a big role too—rates in South Mumbai are higher than in the outskirts. And while some families think hiring through an agency is safer, it often adds 15–25% to the cost. Many find better deals by connecting directly, using trusted community referrals.

Legally, there’s no fixed minimum wage for domestic workers in Mumbai, but the Maharashtra government recommends a minimum of ₹12,000 for part-time and ₹20,000 for full-time roles. Paying below that isn’t just unfair—it’s risky. Workers can file complaints, and you could face legal trouble if something goes wrong. Plus, paying fairly means you’re more likely to keep someone long-term. Turnover is high, and replacing a good helper takes time, stress, and more money in the end.

So what’s the real takeaway? Don’t just look at the number. Look at what you’re getting: consistent work, clear boundaries, respect, and a fair wage. If you pay well, you’ll get loyalty. If you pay too little, you’ll get turnover, frustration, and maybe even resentment. The best domestic workers aren’t found by lowest bid—they’re found by those who understand their value.

Below, you’ll find real salary breakdowns from Mumbai families—what they pay, what they get, and how they avoid common mistakes when hiring help.