Is Kathmandu more expensive than Islamabad?

Kathmandu is 2.1% cheaper than Islamabad overall. Rent is 25.9% lower, groceries 24.0% more expensive, and restaurants 15.9% cheaper.

Which city has better purchasing power, Islamabad or Kathmandu?

Islamabad has a purchasing power index of 39.7 while Kathmandu has 33.9 (NYC = 100). Islamabad offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇵🇰 Islamabad vs 🇳🇵 Kathmandu

2026

Kathmandu is 2.1% cheaper

Category	🇵🇰 Islamabad	🇳🇵 Kathmandu	Difference
Cost of Living	23.6	23.1	-2.1%
Rent	5.4	4.0	-25.9%
Groceries	19.2	23.8	+24.0%
Restaurants	21.4	18.0	-15.9%
Purchasing Power	39.7	33.9	-14.6%

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 Kathmandu

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🇵🇰 Should I Move to Islamabad?

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