This paper presents the development and implementation of a low-cost smart meter. The smart meter is one of the major components of the distribution network. The proposed low-cost smart meter is compared with already existing smart meters deployed in the market. The comparison metrics involve cost, security, installation, and lifetime. In this study, we have presented the market segment and the beachhead market of the proposed product. The TAM size is calculated for better market analysis by calculating the overall customer size. A complete proposed process flow is explained for cost saving comparison, along with a complete market survey. In this paper, the whole technology and hardware needed for the low-cost smart meter is explained in detail along with the total cost of testing and installation.