Is Karachi more expensive than Islamabad?

Karachi is 9.7% cheaper than Islamabad overall. Rent is 35.2% lower, groceries 3.1% more expensive, and restaurants 9.3% cheaper.

Which city has better purchasing power, Islamabad or Karachi?

Islamabad has a purchasing power index of 39.7 while Karachi has 25.9 (NYC = 100). Islamabad offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇵🇰 Islamabad vs 🇵🇰 Karachi

2026

Karachi is 9.7% cheaper

Category	🇵🇰 Islamabad	🇵🇰 Karachi	Difference
Cost of Living	23.6	21.3	-9.7%
Rent	5.4	3.5	-35.2%
Groceries	19.2	19.8	+3.1%
Restaurants	21.4	19.4	-9.3%
Purchasing Power	39.7	25.9	-34.8%

Data verified Q1 2026 · Source: Numbeo cost-of-living indices (NYC = 100 baseline) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

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🇵🇰 Cost of Living in Islamabad

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🇵🇰 Cost of Living in Karachi

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