• Source:JND
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As of January 2025, comparing the cost of living between India and Pakistan uncovers fascinating insights into how daily expenses differ between the two neighbouring nations. Both countries, with their unique economic landscapes and societal structures, offer varying levels of affordability across key sectors like housing, food, transportation, and fuel prices. While Delhi, the bustling capital of India, represents the heart of the country’s economic and cultural life, Islamabad, Pakistan’s serene and well-planned capital, reflects a quieter, more cost-effective urban environment.

From the bustling markets and high-end restaurants of Delhi to the modest grocery stores and affordable eateries in Islamabad, each city presents a distinct financial picture. Whether you’re planning a move, budgeting for a trip, or simply curious about how far your money will go in either city, this comprehensive breakdown sheds light on the cost-of-living dynamics in India and Pakistan as of 2025.

Inflation Rate

As of December 2024, Pakistan's inflation rate stands at 4.1 per cent, the lowest since April 2018, while India's inflation rate is 5.22 per cent, based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

Overall Cost of Living

Pakistan: A family of four estimated monthly costs are ₹ 95,644.4 (309,269.0 PKR) without rent. A single person's estimated monthly costs are ₹29,841.5 (96,493.2PKR) without rent. 

India: A family of four estimated monthly costs are ₹99,676.1 without rent. A single person's estimated monthly costs are ₹28,979.1 without rent.

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Food Price

In Pakistan, the daily recommended minimum amount of money for food per person is 923.55 PKR, which totals 28,629.90 PKR per month, assuming a 31-day month.

In India, the daily recommended minimum amount for food per person ranges from ₹250 to ₹350 depending on the region and dietary preferences, with a budget meal costing around ₹100.

Inflation Rate

As of December 2024, Pakistan's inflation rate stands at 4.1 per cent, the lowest since April 2018, while India's inflation rate is 5.22 per cent, based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

Rent Price

In Pakistan, rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Islamabad varies depending on location. In the city centre, it costs around 30,255 PKR per month, while outside the city centre, it drops to 18,694 PKR. In Delhi, India, a similar apartment in the city centre costs ₹16,547.34 per month.

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Transportation Price

In Pakistan, a one-way local transportation ticket costs around 50 PKR, with prices ranging from 40 to 100 PKR. A monthly pass for local transportation in Pakistan costs around 2,000 PKR. The range is 1,000–4,347.83 PKR.

In India, the cost for daily commuting varies from ₹30 for a one-way ticket to a monthly pass ranging between ₹250 and ₹2,000, depending on the city and transport type. Larger cities tend to be more expensive, and services like taxis or private cars cost more.