Despite the rising costs of utility bills, fruits, vegetables, and other daily essentials in Pakistan, a recent report by data company Numbeo ranks three Pakistani cities among the world's most affordable places to live. According to the 2025 Cost of Living Index, which compares expenses such as rent, groceries, dining, and purchasing power worldwide, Lahore and Karachi have been listed as the 3rd and 4th cheapest cities globally. Both cities are reported to be 85% more affordable than Zurich, Switzerland, which tops the list as one of the most expensive cities. Additionally, Islamabad ranks 314th on the list, making it 83% cheaper than Zurich.