Is Islamabad more expensive than Karachi?

Islamabad is 15.4% more expensive than Karachi overall. Rent is 93.5% higher, groceries 1.0% cheaper, and restaurants 20.9% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Karachi or Islamabad?

Karachi has a purchasing power index of 25.2 while Islamabad has 43.1 (NYC = 100). Islamabad offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇵🇰 Karachi vs 🇵🇰 Islamabad

2026

Islamabad is 15.4% more expensive

Category	🇵🇰 Karachi	🇵🇰 Islamabad	Difference
Cost of Living	22.1	25.5	+15.4%
Rent	3.1	6.0	+93.5%
Groceries	20.7	20.5	-1.0%
Restaurants	19.6	23.7	+20.9%
Purchasing Power	25.2	43.1	+71.0%

Data verified Q1 2026 · Source: Numbeo cost-of-living indices (NYC = 100 baseline) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

Add your salary for a personalized comparison

See exact tax differences, net income, and savings potential.

30k Salary 50k Salary

Explore

🇵🇰 Cost of Living in Karachi

Explore

🇵🇰 Cost of Living in Islamabad

Explore

🇵🇰 Should I Move to Karachi?

Explore

🇵🇰 Should I Move to Islamabad?