The cost of living in Pakistan is low. In Mercer’s Cost of Living Survey for 2021, the capital city, Islamabad, was ranked 199th out of 209 cities. In comparison to this, Karachi, the largest city in Pakistan and another popular expat city, was ranked 201st. The cost of living in both cities is extremely affordable for expats.
Cost of food in Pakistan
Food is inexpensive in Pakistan. Expats will find that groceries are cheap, and eating out – especially at local places – is also not a costly activity. There are plenty of markets selling local produce, though expats should be cautious about washing food items carefully in order to prevent getting sick from the water.
Cost of public transport in Pakistan
While getting around in Pakistan is very cheap, expats should note that the public transport system lacks in safety measures, and the roads can be quite dangerous. That said, bus and train fares are extremely affordable, and expats who choose to buy a car will be pleased to know that the cost of petrol is low too.
Cost of education in Pakistan
Schooling is free (and compulsory) for all children aged five to 16. That said, expat parents will find that the standard of education at public schools is considerably lacking, and therefore will likely send their child to one of the international schools located in Islamabad, Karachi or other main cities.
School fees for international schools can be very pricey, and there may be additional costs for extras such as uniforms, stationery, extra-curricular activities and school transport.
Cost of living in Pakistan chart
Prices may vary depending on product and service provider. The list below shows average prices in Islamabad for December 2021.
Accommodation (monthly rent in good area) |
|
One-bedroom apartment in city centre |
PKR 28,500 |
One-bedroom apartment outside city centre |
PKR 19,300 |
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre |
PKR 64,800 |
Three-bedroom apartment outside city centre |
PKR 40,200 |
Shopping |
|
Eggs (dozen) |
PKR 190 |
Milk (1 litre) |
PKR 135 |
Rice (1kg) |
PKR 165 |
Loaf of white bread |
PKR 90 |
Chicken breasts (1kg) |
PKR 410 |
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) |
PKR 280 |
Eating out |
|
Big Mac Meal |
PKR 650 |
Coca-Cola (330ml) |
PKR 52 |
Cappuccino |
PKR 270 |
Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant |
PKR 2,500 |
Utilities |
|
Mobile-to-mobile call rate (per minute) |
PKR 2.75 |
Internet (uncapped ADSL or cable – average per month) |
PKR 4,100 |
Basic utilities (per month for small apartment) |
PKR 14,900 |
Transportation |
|
Taxi rate (per kilometre) |
PKR 30 |
Bus/train fare in the city centre |
PKR 30 |
Petrol/gasoline (per litre) |
PKR 118 |
Further reading
►For info on security matters, see Safety in Pakistan
Are you an expat living in Pakistan?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Pakistan. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
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