Is Islamabad more expensive than Rawalpindi?

Islamabad is 17.4% more expensive than Rawalpindi overall. Rent is 34.1% higher, groceries 11.1% cheaper, and restaurants 33.0% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Rawalpindi or Islamabad?

Rawalpindi has a purchasing power index of 24.5 while Islamabad has 44.6 (NYC = 100). Islamabad offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇵🇰 Rawalpindi vs 🇵🇰 Islamabad

2026

Islamabad is 17.4% more expensive

Category	🇵🇰 Rawalpindi	🇵🇰 Islamabad	Difference
Cost of Living	21.9	25.7	+17.4%
Rent	4.4	5.9	+34.1%
Groceries	23.5	20.9	-11.1%
Restaurants	17.9	23.8	+33.0%
Purchasing Power	24.5	44.6	+82.0%

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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