Quality of life in Rishikesh is about balance between nature, culture, and practical living. Build a simple budgeting framework around housing, meals, and transport, plus a little buffer for yoga classes or weekend trips. To save, consider staying in guesthouses with inclusive meals, using local markets, and sharing rides. Seasonality shapes crowds and noise, with peak periods around festivals and yoga events; choose neighborhoods that match your pace – riverfront areas for easy walkability or quieter lanes inland for calmer evenings. The fit comes from trying a few areas during different times of day, noticing cafe crowding, noise levels, and access to co-working or meditation spaces. Tip: prioritize a flexible lease and a plan for slower months to maintain balance.