Cost of Living in Karachi, Pakistan

Karachi, the sprawling 'City of Lights' and Pakistan's financial powerhouse, offers an exceptionally low cost of living by global standards. As a coastal megacity, it serves as the primary trade hub of the country, resulting in highly competitive prices for commodities and services. While the city faces infrastructure and traffic challenges, its vibrant culinary scene, diverse housing market, and affordability make it a unique destination for budget-conscious expatriates and digital nomads.

Rent & Housing Prices in Karachi

3bed apartment city centerRs 110,000 - 180,000 ($393 - $643)

1bed apartment outside centerRs 25,000 - 45,000 ($89 - $161)

1bed apartment city centerRs 50,000 - 75,000 ($178 - $268)

3bed apartment outside centerRs 65,000 - 95,000 ($232 - $339)

Food & Dining Prices

Meal, Inexpensive RestaurantRs 600 ($2.14)

Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-courseRs 5,500 ($19.64)

McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent)Rs 1,400 ($5.00)

Milk (regular), (1 liter)Rs 240 ($0.86)

Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)Rs 150 ($0.54)

Rice (white), (1kg)Rs 320 ($1.14)

Transportation & Fuel Costs

monthly pass regular priceRs 3,500 ($12.50)

taxi start normal tariffRs 250 ($0.89)

one way ticket local transportRs 100 ($0.36)

gasoline 1 literRs 285 ($1.02)

Average Salary & Mortgage Rates

mortgage interest rate 20y fixed19.5%

avg monthly net salaryRs 78,000 ($278)

Quality of Life in Karachi

Karachi offers a high-energy lifestyle with world-class dining and shopping malls, but faces significant urban challenges. Public safety varies significantly by neighborhood, with areas like DHA and Clifton being preferred for security. Healthcare is mixed, with private hospitals like Aga Khan offering international standards, while public facilities struggle with capacity. Air quality and traffic congestion remain the primary environmental concerns for residents.

3 Days in Karachi: A Budget Itinerary

Day 1

Morning visit to the Mazar-e-Quaid (Jinnah's Mausoleum), followed by an afternoon at the Mohatta Palace Museum. Evening walk along Seaview Beach and dinner at the famous Do Darya waterfront.

Day 2

Explore the colonial architecture of Empress Market and Frere Hall. Afternoon shopping for textiles at Zainab Market. Evening food tour on Burns Road for authentic Biryani and Nihari.

Day 3

Take a boat trip from Kemari to Manora Island. Spend the late afternoon at Port Grand for entertainment and snacks. Finish the trip with tea at a traditional dhaba in DHA Phase 6.

Popular Flights to Karachi

Jeddah (JED) to Karachi (KHI)

Compare Karachi

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