Abbottabad, Pakistan
Capital City

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Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$520
Retiree Score
68.0
Safety Index
75.4
Healthcare
4 facilities

With a population of 148,587, Abbottabad is a bustling provincial hub, but one with a heavy bureaucratic burden and a climate that swings from sweltering to frigid. Founded in 1845 by a British military officer, this city serves as the headquarters for Pakistan's Army, attracting students from across the country to its many colleges and universities. However, the region's history of tribal conflicts and the 2011 raid that killed Osama bin Laden have cast a shadow, with the COVID-19 pandemic further straining local healthcare workers. For those willing to navigate the red tape and unpredictable weather, Abbottabad offers educational and career opportunities, but it's not for the faint of heart.

Can I afford Abbottabad?

$

Abbottabad

You could save

2,480/mo

Savings Rate83%

Monthly Costs

Rent $220
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$300

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
83/100
Retiree Score
(i)
68/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
53/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Pakistan Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
75
Safety
4
Healthcare
100
Walkability
35
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $1
Bread (loaf) *$1
Eggs (12) $1
Rice (1kg) *$1
Chicken (1kg) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$2
Meal (Mid-range) $81
Cappuccino $1
Water (0.33L) *$0

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $54
Mobile Plan (mo) $4
Gym (mo) *$18
Cinema Ticket $4

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $132
1BR Outside (mo) *$46
3BR Center (mo) $288
3BR Outside (mo) *$106

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Common in Tourist Areas
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
Cantt
Best For
retirees

Expat Life Notes

A mountain retreat city known for its safety and military academy. popular for domestic tourism.

Pros

  • Cool weather
  • Safe atmosphere
  • Scenic mountains

Cons

  • Strict security
  • Limited entertainment
  • Basic health standard

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
Temperature
Annual Rainfall
1146 mm
Coworking Spaces
Best Months to Visit
Mar, Apr, May, Oct, Nov

Also Consider

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Abbottabad

Click any question to expand the answer.

Abbottabad has a population of approximately 148,587 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $550 per month in Abbottabad, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $220/month.

The nearest airport to Abbottabad is ISB, approximately 77km away.

Abbottabad is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 75.4. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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