Last update: Oct 2026 Pakistan 2M

Cost of Living in Peshawar

For one person, living costs in Peshawar are estimated at $437 a month, including rent and utilities, which take more than a third of the total. Other living expenses average about $9 a day.

Monthly Cost of Living

How much you'll spend in Peshawar

Real prices from locals and on-the-ground checks – rent, groceries, transit and the daily extras. Here's what a month in Peshawar actually costs, broken down by who's living it.

Living costs for one person come to about $437 monthly including rent, or $260 excluding housing.

$437 /mo

Estimated monthly costs for a couple: $629 with rent, or $431 without housing.

$629 /mo

Monthly costs for a family of three come to about $821 including rent, or $602 for daily expenses alone.

$821 /mo

Peshawar sits 68–71% below the global median across household types. Within Asia, costs are well below average (59% lower) – one of the most affordable options in the region.

Currency
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🍽 Eating Out
Cost
Range
Meal at Budget Restaurant
$2.40 PKR 663
$0.71 PKR 196
$7.09 PKR 1,962
Three-Course Dinner for Two, Mid-Range
$8.79 PKR 2,432
$8.43 PKR 2,332
$37.59 PKR 10.4K
Fast Food Meal (McDonalds, etc)
$5.28 PKR 1,460
$4.21 PKR 1,167
$6.33 PKR 1,751
Local Non-Alcoholic Beer (0.5 liter draught)
$2.19 PKR 607
$1.09 PKR 302
$7.30 PKR 2,020
Imported Non-Alcoholic Beer (0.33 liter bottle)
$2.94 PKR 814
$2.58 PKR 713
$7.35 PKR 2,035
Cappuccino
$2.61 PKR 722
$0.53 PKR 147
$6.04 PKR 1,673
Coke/Pepsi/Fanta/Sprite (0.33 liter bottle)
$0.36 PKR 98.8
$0.30 PKR 84.3
$0.76 PKR 209
Water (0.33 liter bottle)
$0.20 PKR 55.2
$0.19 PKR 52.3
$0.38 PKR 105
🛒 Groceries & Markets
Cost
Range
Milk (1 liter)
$0.98 PKR 270
$0.73 PKR 203
$1.34 PKR 372
White Bread (500g)
$0.76 PKR 212
$0.33 PKR 90.3
$1.10 PKR 305
Rice (white) (1kg)
$1.05 PKR 292
$0.71 PKR 196
$1.53 PKR 423
Eggs
$1.06 PKR 294
$0.70 PKR 194
$1.69 PKR 467
Local Cheese (1kg)
$3.51 PKR 972
$1.42 PKR 394
$11.42 PKR 3,162
Chicken Fillets (1kg)
$3.04 PKR 840
$1.36 PKR 377
$4.24 PKR 1,173
Beef Round Steak (1kg)
$3.80 PKR 1,051
$3.31 PKR 916
$7.35 PKR 2,034
Apples (1kg)
$1.18 PKR 327
$0.53 PKR 147
$1.96 PKR 542
Banana (1kg)
$0.55 PKR 153
$0.37 PKR 102
$1.29 PKR 358
Oranges (1kg)
$0.58 PKR 161
$0.17 PKR 48.19
$2.80 PKR 774
Tomato (1kg)
$0.56 PKR 155
$0.23 PKR 63.2
$1.31 PKR 362
Potato (1kg)
$0.29 PKR 80.3
$0.19 PKR 51.6
$0.75 PKR 207
Onion (1kg)
$0.33 PKR 92.4
$0.19 PKR 52.0
$0.56 PKR 156
Lettuce (1 head)
$0.28 PKR 77.1
$0.11 PKR 29.23
$0.69 PKR 191
Water (1.5 liter bottle)
$0.27 PKR 75.1
$0.15 PKR 40.42
$0.56 PKR 156
Bottle of Non-Alcoholic Wine (Mid-Range)
$2.02 PKR 558
$0.74 PKR 205
$9.29 PKR 2,571
Local Non-Alcoholic Beer (0.5 liter bottle)
$0.71 PKR 196
$0.54 PKR 150
$1.78 PKR 493
Imported Non-Alcoholic Beer (0.33 liter bottle)
$0.74 PKR 205
$0.74 PKR 205
$3.71 PKR 1,028
Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro, Camel)
$1.78 PKR 492
$1.59 PKR 440
$3.54 PKR 981
🚌 Getting Around
Cost
Range
One-way Ticket (Public Transport)
$0.23 PKR 63.8
$0.19 PKR 52.2
$0.26 PKR 72.5
Public Transport Monthly Pass (Regular Price)
$12.53 PKR 3,467
$4.14 PKR 1,146
$14.40 PKR 3,986
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)
$1.06 PKR 295
$0.71 PKR 196
$1.78 PKR 494
Taxi (Normal Tariff) (1km)
$0.69 PKR 190
$0.28 PKR 76.6
$1.03 PKR 285
Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff)
$1.46 PKR 405
$1.10 PKR 304
$2.20 PKR 610
Gasoline (1 liter)
$1.21 PKR 336
$0.92 PKR 255
$1.47 PKR 406
Midsize Hatchback 1.4l (Volkswagen Golf, Toyota Prius, Honda Civic, etc)
$22.2K PKR 6.1M
$16.0K PKR 4.4M
$53.2K PKR 14.7M
Compact Sedan 1.6l (Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Kia K4, Hyundai Elantra, etc)
$24.0K PKR 6.6M
$21.4K PKR 5.9M
$28.5K PKR 7.9M
🧾 Monthly Utilities & Internet
Cost
Range
Utilities for 2 People in 2-bedroom Apartment (Heating, Electricity, Gas, Water, Garbage) (85m2)
$100 PKR 27.8K
$71.1 PKR 19.7K
$213 PKR 59.0K
SIM Card Monthly Plan (Calls and 10GB+ Data)
$6.11 PKR 1,691
$3.67 PKR 1,017
$11.02 PKR 3,051
Internet (50+ Mbps, Unlimited Data)
$14.22 PKR 3,935
$8.89 PKR 2,461
$28.43 PKR 7,869
🎉 Sport & Entertainment
Cost
Range
Gym Membership (Monthly)
$15.46 PKR 4,280
$12.74 PKR 3,527
$18.20 PKR 5,036
Tennis Court (1 Hour on Weekend)
$6.15 PKR 1,701
$1.85 PKR 512
$11.06 PKR 3,061
Cinema Ticket
$2.01 PKR 557
$1.83 PKR 506
$6.57 PKR 1,818
🧸 Childcare & Education
Cost
Range
Preschool or Kindergarten, Full Day, Private, 1 Child (Monthly)
$46.31 PKR 12.8K
$32.06 PKR 8,873
$143 PKR 39.4K
International Primary School, 1 Child (Yearly)
$5,106 PKR 1.4M
$1,544 PKR 427.4K
$12.6K PKR 3.5M
👕👟 Clothing & Footwear
Cost
Range
Jeans (Levis 501 Or Similar)
$7.09 PKR 1,962
$7.09 PKR 1,962
$42.52 PKR 11.8K
Summer Dress (H&M, Zara, etc)
$16.28 PKR 4,507
$9.05 PKR 2,504
$72.4 PKR 20.0K
Sport Shoes (Adidas, Nike)
$49.87 PKR 13.8K
$28.50 PKR 7,887
$143 PKR 39.4K
Men's Leather Business Shoes
$40.01 PKR 11.1K
$17.78 PKR 4,921
$99.6 PKR 27.6K
🏠 Accommodation & Living
Cost
Range
1-bedroom Apartment, City Center (Monthly)
$127 PKR 35.2K
$127 PKR 35.2K
$127 PKR 35.2K
1-bedroom Apartment, Outside City Center (Monthly)
$76.2 PKR 21.1K
$63.8 PKR 17.6K
$88.6 PKR 24.5K
3-bedroom Apartment, City Center (Monthly)
$202 PKR 55.8K
$183 PKR 50.7K
$220 PKR 60.9K
3-bedroom Apartment, Outside City Center (Monthly)
$118 PKR 32.7K
$91.0 PKR 25.2K
$146 PKR 40.3K
💵 Salaries & Financials
Cost
Range
Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax)
$147 PKR 40.6K
-
20-Year Fixed Mortgage Interest Rate (Annual %)
11
6
17

CityCost data is based on AI and user input – minor inaccuracies may occur.

Last update: October 13, 2026

Monthly budget structure
Share of the monthly basket for one person, rent included.
Peshawar $437
Monthly Utilities & Internet
$121
Groceries & Markets
$83
Accommodation & Living
$76
Eating Out
$69
Clothing & Footwear
$51
Sport & Entertainment
$19
Getting Around
$18

Cost Breakdown

Expect to pay about $127 for a central one-bedroom, or $76.2 outside the center. At 87% of the average salary ($147), rent is manageable but leaves limited room for savings.

Average take-home pay sits at $147, while typical expenses reach $437. The gap means tight budgeting for locals, though expats with foreign income can live comfortably.

Expect to spend about $83.0 monthly on groceries. Dining out at a mid-range restaurant costs roughly $9.00 for two – well below the Asian average of $36.00.

Public transport is priced at around $12.53 per month – among the cheapest in Asia (average $33.00).

Cost Highlights

Average monthly net salary is lower than 97% of cities in Asia

3-bedroom apartment, outside city center is cheaper than 94% of cities in Asia

Three-course dinner for two, mid-range is cheaper than 92% of cities in Asia

Good to know
🕒 Local time
03:21 3:21 AM
🌤 Weather
👥 Population
1,970,042
💱 Currency
Exchange rates and currency converter

USD, EUR to PKR – Pakistani Rupee Converter

Pakistani Rupee exchange rates as of October 18, 2026: 1 USD = 277 PKR (1,000 PKR = 3.61 USD). 1 EUR = 311 PKR (1,000 PKR = 3.21 EUR).

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Peshawar Median Internet Speeds (Updated April 2026)

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Cost of Living in Peshawar - Frequently Asked Questions
Is the overall affordability of Peshawar, Pakistan good for travelers, expats, and digital nomads, and how does it compare with other cities in the region?
The Cost of Living in Peshawar, Pakistan is generally approachable for longer stays, with affordable street food, simple transit options, and modest housing relative to larger metros. Local neighborhoods vary: the old city can feel vibrant and budget-friendly, while newer apartments near universities offer reliable comfort at a similar or slightly higher price. Utilities and services are typically reasonable, though you’ll notice seasonal shifts in energy use. Plan with a flexible budget that accounts for groceries, occasional imports, and social outings. Tip: learn the local markets and bargaining norms to stretch every rupee.
What does daily life look like for a traveler or expat in Peshawar, including housing search, food options, transport, and coworking or errands?
Daily life centers on market-due convenience, strong local cuisine, and accessible transit. For housing, search near arterial streets or university pockets; you’ll find good value in modest apartments or shared housing, with varying security considerations. Food options range from vendors with affordable staples to cafes that suit remote work. Transport relies on rickshaws, ride-hailing apps, and walkable neighborhoods. If you need a coworking setup, look for small tech or business hubs near educational campuses. If you need a quick budgeting frame, understand the Peshawar, Pakistan living cost by mapping weekly groceries, transit, and meals. Tip: carry cash for street markets and use safe transport after dark.
What are best practices for balancing quality of life and budgeting, including seasonality, neighborhood fit, and saving tips in Peshawar?
Quality of life is tied to neighborhood fit and a practical budgeting approach. Seasonality affects energy and dining plans, so have a plan for hot summers and chilly winters. Use a simple framework: fixed costs (rent, utilities, essential groceries) plus a flexible envelope for dining, transport, and activities. Compare areas by safety, access to markets, clinics, and coworking spaces, not just rent. Embrace local markets, seasonal produce, and reasonable transit options to stretch each rupee. Tip: test a few neighborhoods for a month each before deciding, and build a rotating routine to keep costs predictable.
What is the average cost of living in Peshawar?
A single person in Peshawar typically spends $437 per month once rent is factored in. Strip out housing, and everyday essentials like groceries, utilities, transport, and personal spending land around $260. The final number shifts depending on your neighborhood, eating habits, and general lifestyle.
What is the average cost of living in Peshawar in 2026?
As of 2026, monthly living costs in Peshawar come to around $437 including rent, or roughly $260 excluding it. Numbers shift a bit by season and neighborhood, but this range works well as a planning baseline.
How much do you need to earn to live comfortably in Peshawar?
Around $655 take-home puts you in a comfortable spot in Peshawar – enough for rent, food, bills, and a bit of savings. Drop below that and you'll probably need to share a flat, stick to cooking at home, or pick a neighborhood further out.
How much does a 1-bedroom apartment cost in Peshawar?
Rents for a 1-bedroom flat in Peshawar range from $76.2 to $127, depending on location and condition. Central apartments sit at the top of that range; outer neighborhoods and suburbs deliver noticeably better value per square meter.
How expensive is a gym membership in Peshawar?
Fitness in Peshawar is cheap at around $15.46 monthly for a standard gym. It's one of the lighter items in the budget, making it easy to stay active without worrying about the cost.
How cheap is food in Peshawar?
Peshawar is great for eating affordably at home. Monthly grocery bills run about $83.0, and local produce is plentiful and well-priced, making home cooking both practical and cost-effective.
Can you live on $800 a month in Peshawar?
$800 stretches far in Peshawar – all-in monthly costs average only $437. The surplus means you can build savings, travel a bit, and live above the local average without much effort.
Is Peshawar a good place to live?
Living in Peshawar means access to great local cuisine, multilingual environment at about $437 per month including rent. It works for a wide range of budgets, and most residents find the lifestyle-to-cost balance appealing. Your experience will depend on priorities like climate, culture, and career.
Can you save money living in Peshawar?
Monthly expenses in Peshawar run around $437, so putting money aside takes more than $655 in income. Keeping housing costs low and avoiding lifestyle creep are the keys to building a decent savings rate here.
Is Peshawar good for backpackers on a budget?
Budget travelers love Peshawar – low prices across accommodation, food, and transport make it one of the most backpacker-friendly cities around. Long-stay costs come to just $437 monthly; short-term visitors can get by on even less with hostels and local food.

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