Lucknow: With new circle rates effective from August 1, 2025, Lucknow has entered the list of India's top 10 most expensive cities. The city is now the third most expensive in Uttar Pradesh, behind Noida, which holds the top spot, and Ghaziabad, which has moved into second place, ahead of Lucknow. Nationally, Mumbai remains the most expensive city.

The new rates, implemented after a decade, have significantly increased property prices. In some residential areas, rates have jumped by up to 130%, while commercial properties saw a rise of 30%. For example, circle rates in high-end areas like Gomti Nagar have risen from ₹33,000 to ₹77,000 per square meter.

According to real estate experts, this hike was overdue. They believe that the increase, which brings circle rates closer to market rates, will not only boost government revenue but also enhance transparency in property transactions, helping to curb tax evasion.