Is Islamabad more expensive than Lahore?

Islamabad is 12.4% more expensive than Lahore overall. Rent is 63.6% higher, groceries 3.2% more expensive, and restaurants 2.4% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Lahore or Islamabad?

Lahore has a purchasing power index of 28.5 while Islamabad has 39.7 (NYC = 100). Islamabad offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇵🇰 Lahore vs 🇵🇰 Islamabad

2026

Islamabad is 12.4% more expensive

Category	🇵🇰 Lahore	🇵🇰 Islamabad	Difference
Cost of Living	21.0	23.6	+12.4%
Rent	3.3	5.4	+63.6%
Groceries	18.6	19.2	+3.2%
Restaurants	20.9	21.4	+2.4%
Purchasing Power	28.5	39.7	+39.3%

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 Lahore

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🇵🇰 Cost of Living in Islamabad

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🇵🇰 Should I Move to Lahore?

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