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Karachi, Pakistan
Capital City

Follows Pakistan Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$460
Retiree Score
86.0
Safety Index
28.5
Healthcare
879 facilities

With over 14 million residents, Karachi is Pakistan's most populous and chaotic city. Its economy may contribute 25% of the country's GDP, but the cost of living here is steep and the bureaucracy a persistent headache. Karachi's climate ranges from sweltering summers to mild winters, though deadly heatwaves remain a risk. While crime rates have improved in recent years, the city still faces pockets of violence and political strife. For prospective residents, Karachi offers unparalleled economic opportunities, but the urban challenges are daunting.

Can I afford Karachi?

$

Karachi

You could save

2,540/mo

Savings Rate85%

Monthly Costs

Rent $180
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$280

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
85/100
Retiree Score
(i)
86/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Pakistan Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
29
Safety
879
Healthcare
100
Walkability
50
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) *$1
Meal (Mid-range) $81
Cappuccino $1
Water (0.33L) *$0

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $107
Mobile Plan (mo) $6
Gym (mo) *$12
Cinema Ticket $4

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $180
1BR Outside (mo) *$76
3BR Center (mo) $420
3BR Outside (mo) *$177

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Common in Tourist Areas
Expat Community
Large & Active
Top Neighborhoods
Clifton, DHA, PECHS
Best For
business professionals, families

Expat Life Notes

Pakistan's largest city is a massive financial hub with a large but socially secluded expat community.

Pros

  • ✓ Major international business hub
  • ✓ Vibrant dining and retail enclaves
  • ✓ Low living costs

Cons

  • ✗ Significant security risks
  • ✗ Severe traffic and air pollution
  • ✗ Extreme humidity

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
13°C°C - 34°C°C
Annual Rainfall
154 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Jul, Aug

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Karachi

Click any question to expand the answer.

Karachi has a population of approximately 14,910,352 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $450 per month in Karachi, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $180/month.

The nearest airport to Karachi is KHI, approximately 16km away.

Karachi is considered a higher-crime area that requires caution, with a safety index of 28.5. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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