Is Islamabad more expensive than Karachi?

Islamabad is 10.8% more expensive than Karachi overall. Rent is 54.3% higher, groceries 3.0% cheaper, and restaurants 10.3% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Karachi or Islamabad?

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

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇵🇰 Karachi vs 🇵🇰 Islamabad

2026

Islamabad is 10.8% more expensive

Category	🇵🇰 Karachi	🇵🇰 Islamabad	Difference
Cost of Living	21.3	23.6	+10.8%
Rent	3.5	5.4	+54.3%
Groceries	19.8	19.2	-3.0%
Restaurants	19.4	21.4	+10.3%
Purchasing Power	25.9	39.7	+53.3%

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 Karachi

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🇵🇰 Cost of Living in Islamabad

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🇵🇰 Should I Move to Karachi?

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