Is Rawalpindi more expensive than Islamabad?

Rawalpindi is 14.1% cheaper than Islamabad overall. Rent is 26.7% lower, groceries 13.7% more expensive, and restaurants 24.1% cheaper.

Which city has better purchasing power, Islamabad or Rawalpindi?

Islamabad has a purchasing power index of 43.1 while Rawalpindi has 23.4 (NYC = 100). Islamabad offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇵🇰 Islamabad vs 🇵🇰 Rawalpindi

2026

Rawalpindi is 14.1% cheaper

Category	🇵🇰 Islamabad	🇵🇰 Rawalpindi	Difference
Cost of Living	25.5	21.9	-14.1%
Rent	6.0	4.4	-26.7%
Groceries	20.5	23.3	+13.7%
Restaurants	23.7	18.0	-24.1%
Purchasing Power	43.1	23.4	-45.7%

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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