Bhutan’s urban households are spending more on non-food essentials than rural areas, according to the Household Consumption and Expenditure Survey 2025, highlighting income, access to services, and lifestyle differences. Urban households spend more on ICT, clothing, footwear and housing than rural ones, with urban areas spending more on ready-made garments, tailoring, and maintenance. Housing costs are higher in urban areas. Urban mobility costs households Nu 7,825, with higher costs in urban areas due to vehicle purchases and public transport services.
Rural families spend more on car maintenance. Healthcare, education, and non-food spending are disproportionately influenced by gender, with rural households spending less and urban areas spending more, highlighting inequality. Bhutan’s digital divide persists, with urban households spending more on software and mobile data, while rural families prioritize garden care and spiritual travel.