Is Rawalpindi more expensive than Karachi?

Rawalpindi is 0.9% cheaper than Karachi overall. Rent is 41.9% higher, groceries 12.6% more expensive, and restaurants 8.2% cheaper.

Which city has better purchasing power, Karachi or Rawalpindi?

Karachi has a purchasing power index of 25.2 while Rawalpindi has 23.4 (NYC = 100). Karachi offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇵🇰 Karachi vs 🇵🇰 Rawalpindi

2026

Rawalpindi is 0.9% cheaper

Category	🇵🇰 Karachi	🇵🇰 Rawalpindi	Difference
Cost of Living	22.1	21.9	-0.9%
Rent	3.1	4.4	+41.9%
Groceries	20.7	23.3	+12.6%
Restaurants	19.6	18.0	-8.2%
Purchasing Power	25.2	23.4	-7.1%

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 Rawalpindi

Explore

🇵🇰 Should I Move to Karachi?

Explore

🇵🇰 Should I Move to Rawalpindi?