Is Islamabad more expensive than Karachi?

Islamabad is 17.9% more expensive than Karachi overall. Rent is 78.8% higher, groceries 0.5% more expensive, and restaurants 24.0% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Karachi or Islamabad?

Karachi has a purchasing power index of 26.1 while Islamabad has 44.6 (NYC = 100). Islamabad offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇵🇰 Karachi vs 🇵🇰 Islamabad

2026

Islamabad is 17.9% more expensive

Category	🇵🇰 Karachi	🇵🇰 Islamabad	Difference
Cost of Living	21.8	25.7	+17.9%
Rent	3.3	5.9	+78.8%
Groceries	20.8	20.9	+0.5%
Restaurants	19.2	23.8	+24.0%
Purchasing Power	26.1	44.6	+70.9%

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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