Is Islamabad more expensive than Lahore?

Islamabad is 17.0% more expensive than Lahore overall. Rent is 76.5% higher, groceries 7.9% more expensive, and restaurants 8.2% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Lahore or Islamabad?

Lahore has a purchasing power index of 25.8 while Islamabad has 43.1 (NYC = 100). Islamabad offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇵🇰 Lahore vs 🇵🇰 Islamabad

2026

Islamabad is 17.0% more expensive

Category	🇵🇰 Lahore	🇵🇰 Islamabad	Difference
Cost of Living	21.8	25.5	+17.0%
Rent	3.4	6.0	+76.5%
Groceries	19.0	20.5	+7.9%
Restaurants	21.9	23.7	+8.2%
Purchasing Power	25.8	43.1	+67.1%

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 Lahore

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🇵🇰 Cost of Living in Islamabad

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🇵🇰 Should I Move to Lahore?

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