Is Rawalpindi more expensive than Islamabad?

Rawalpindi is 11.4% cheaper than Islamabad overall. Rent is 24.1% lower, groceries 13.5% more expensive, and restaurants 18.7% cheaper.

Which city has better purchasing power, Islamabad or Rawalpindi?

Islamabad has a purchasing power index of 39.7 while Rawalpindi has 26.0 (NYC = 100). Islamabad offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇵🇰 Islamabad vs 🇵🇰 Rawalpindi

2026

Rawalpindi is 11.4% cheaper

Category	🇵🇰 Islamabad	🇵🇰 Rawalpindi	Difference
Cost of Living	23.6	20.9	-11.4%
Rent	5.4	4.1	-24.1%
Groceries	19.2	21.8	+13.5%
Restaurants	21.4	17.4	-18.7%
Purchasing Power	39.7	26.0	-34.5%

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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