Is Rawalpindi more expensive than Islamabad?

Rawalpindi is 14.8% cheaper than Islamabad overall. Rent is 25.4% lower, groceries 12.4% more expensive, and restaurants 24.8% cheaper.

Which city has better purchasing power, Islamabad or Rawalpindi?

Islamabad has a purchasing power index of 44.6 while Rawalpindi has 24.5 (NYC = 100). Islamabad offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇵🇰 Islamabad vs 🇵🇰 Rawalpindi

2026

Rawalpindi is 14.8% cheaper

Category	🇵🇰 Islamabad	🇵🇰 Rawalpindi	Difference
Cost of Living	25.7	21.9	-14.8%
Rent	5.9	4.4	-25.4%
Groceries	20.9	23.5	+12.4%
Restaurants	23.8	17.9	-24.8%
Purchasing Power	44.6	24.5	-45.1%

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 Rawalpindi

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🇵🇰 Should I Move to Islamabad?

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