Is Islamabad more expensive than Rawalpindi?

Islamabad is 12.9% more expensive than Rawalpindi overall. Rent is 31.7% higher, groceries 11.9% cheaper, and restaurants 23.0% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Rawalpindi or Islamabad?

Rawalpindi has a purchasing power index of 26.0 while Islamabad has 39.7 (NYC = 100). Islamabad offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇵🇰 Rawalpindi vs 🇵🇰 Islamabad

2026

Islamabad is 12.9% more expensive

Category	🇵🇰 Rawalpindi	🇵🇰 Islamabad	Difference
Cost of Living	20.9	23.6	+12.9%
Rent	4.1	5.4	+31.7%
Groceries	21.8	19.2	-11.9%
Restaurants	17.4	21.4	+23.0%
Purchasing Power	26.0	39.7	+52.7%

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 Rawalpindi

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🇵🇰 Cost of Living in Islamabad

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🇵🇰 Should I Move to Rawalpindi?

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