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Living in Pakistan: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Pakistan | Expat Exchange
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Lahore, Pakistan

Living in Pakistan

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Mar 01, 2024

Summary: The approximate population of Pakistan is 212 million people. The largest cities in Pakistan are Karachi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, and Multan. Expats love living in Pakistan for its rich culture, friendly people, and beautiful landscapes. People describe life in Pakistan as vibrant and full of life. Foods popular in Pakistan include biryani, kebabs, naan, and korma. The cons of living in Pakistan include the lack of infrastructure, poor public transportation, and the security situation. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000 to $2,000 per month. This includes rent, utilities, food, and other expenses.

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What do I need to know about living in Pakistan?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Pakistan, they said:

"1. Expats should research the cost of living in Pakistan before retiring there, as it can vary significantly depending on the city and lifestyle. 2. It is important to familiarize yourself with the local culture and customs, as well as the language, to ensure a smooth transition. 3. Expats should also be aware of the security situation in Pakistan, as it can be volatile in certain areas. 4. It is important to obtain the necessary visas and permits before retiring in Pakistan, as well as to ensure that all paperwork is in order. 5. Expats should also research the healthcare system in Pakistan, as it may not be up to the same standards as in their home country. 6. It is also important to research the banking system in Pakistan, as well as the availability of international banking services. 7. Expats should also be aware of the tax system in Pakistan, as it can be complex and may require professional advice," wrote a member in Pakistan.

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How do I meet people in Pakistan?

When we asked people living in Pakistan about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Pakistan often join clubs and activities such as sports teams, book clubs, and language classes. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, expats can meet people by joining online forums and social media groups related to their interests. Finally, expats can meet people by attending networking events and joining professional organizations," remarked one expat living in Pakistan.

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What is life like in Pakistan?

When we asked people living in Pakistan what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Pakistan can be both exciting and challenging. The country offers a unique cultural experience, with a rich history and vibrant culture. Expats and digital nomads can find a wide range of activities to explore, from visiting historical sites to exploring the country's natural beauty. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. However, the country can be dangerous in certain areas, and expats and digital nomads should take extra precautions when travelling. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge, as English is not widely spoken. Despite these challenges, expats and digital nomads can find a welcoming and hospitable environment in Pakistan," said one expat who made the move to Pakistan.

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Is there a lot of crime in Pakistan?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Crime is a major problem in Pakistan. The country has seen a rise in violent crime in recent years, including murder, kidnapping, and extortion. Drug trafficking and smuggling are also common, as are robberies and burglaries. In addition, there is a growing problem with cybercrime, including identity theft and fraud. The government has taken steps to address the issue, but the problem remains widespread," commented one expat who made the move to Pakistan.

Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Pakistan accepting of differences?

"Pakistan is a diverse country with a variety of ethnic and religious backgrounds. People of different religions, cultures, and backgrounds live together in harmony and acceptance. Pakistanis are generally accepting of differences and celebrate diversity. People of different faiths, ethnicities, and backgrounds are respected and welcomed in Pakistani society," remarked one expat living in Pakistan.

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What are the schools in Pakistan like?

"The Beaconhouse School System is one of the best international schools in Pakistan. It is a private school system with over 200 branches across the country. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Islamic Studies. The school also offers a range of extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and art. The Lahore American School is a bilingual school in Pakistan that offers an American-style education. It is a private school that offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Islamic Studies. The school also offers a range of extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and art. The International School of Islamabad is another great international school in Pakistan. It is a private school that offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Islamic Studies. The school also offers a range of extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and art. The International School of Karachi is a bilingual school in Pakistan that offers an American-style education. It is a private school that offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Islamic Studies. The school also offers a range of extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and art," commented one expat when asked about in Pakistan.

Is the cost of living in Pakistan high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Pakistan, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Pakistan varies depending on the city and lifestyle. Generally, basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are relatively inexpensive. However, the cost of luxury items such as electronics, cars, and imported goods can be quite high. Additionally, the cost of utilities such as electricity and water can be quite expensive in some areas. Overall, the cost of living in Pakistan is generally lower than in many other countries," remarked one expat living in Pakistan.

"The cost of living in Pakistan varies greatly depending on the region. Generally, the cost of living is lower than in many other countries, but it is still higher than in some other parts of the country. In the major cities, such as Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, the cost of living is higher than in the rural areas. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Pakistan is around $200-300 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is around $400-500 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Pakistan can cost around $10-15 USD per person," said one expat.

What type of recreational facilities are in Pakistan?

When we asked people living in Pakistan about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Pakistan, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, beaches, and sports complexes. Parks are a popular destination for families, offering a variety of activities such as picnicking, jogging, and playing sports. Beaches are also a popular destination, with many offering a variety of water sports and activities. Sports complexes are also popular, offering a variety of sports such as cricket, football, and tennis. Additionally, many cities in Pakistan have a variety of cultural and entertainment venues, such as cinemas, theatres, and museums," mentioned an expat living in Pakistan.

What is the weather like in Pakistan?

"The weather in Pakistan is generally hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from mild to very hot depending on the season. In the winter months, temperatures can drop to freezing in some parts of the country, while in the summer months temperatures can reach up to 40°C. Rainfall is generally low, with most of the country receiving less than 10 inches of rain per year. The monsoon season brings heavy rains to the northern and western parts of the country, while the southern and eastern parts remain relatively dry," remarked one expat living in Pakistan.

Are there good restaurants in Pakistan?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Pakistan is BBQ Tonight, located in Karachi. It is known for its delicious BBQ dishes, such as tandoori chicken, beef kebabs, and fish tikka. The restaurant also offers a variety of traditional Pakistani dishes, such as biryani and karahi. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. https://www.bbqtonight.com.pk/ Another popular restaurant in Pakistan is Cafe Flo, located in Lahore. This restaurant is known for its unique fusion of Pakistani and Italian cuisine. The menu includes a variety of dishes, such as lasagna, pizza, and pasta. The restaurant also offers a variety of desserts, such as tiramisu and gelato. The restaurant has a modern and stylish atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. https://www.cafeflo.com/ Finally, The Monal is a popular restaurant located in Islamabad. This restaurant is known for its traditional Pakistani cuisine, such as biryani, karahi, and tikka. The restaurant also offers a variety of international dishes, such as Chinese and Italian. The restaurant has a beautiful outdoor seating area, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. https://www.themonal.com/," mentioned one expat inPakistan.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Pakistan?

"People living in Pakistan typically buy groceries from local markets, roadside vendors, and supermarkets. Other shopping can be done at malls, bazaars, and online stores," commented one expat living in Pakistan.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Pakistan?

"In order to visit Pakistan, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, providing a valid passport, and paying the applicable visa fee. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Pakistan, foreign nationals must apply for a residence permit. The process of applying for a residence permit involves submitting an application form, providing a valid passport, and providing proof of financial means. Depending on the purpose of the stay, additional documents may be required," commented one expat living in Pakistan.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Pakistan?

"Having traveled fairly well and lived in the US for one years as a student at Harvard and later 2 years working there, I would not compare the Pakistan health facilities with the developed countries but Pakistan trained doctors are welcomed all over the developed economies in droves. The quality of Pakistan's health facilities is very reliable if you've money to spend. Private hospitals and facilities abound and provide real good quality of services which is very low priced in comparison to international prices for comparable services and procedures. The quality of public-funded universal coverage is bad due to lack of resources and management efficiency nonetheless," said one expat.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Pakistan can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by any form of health insurance. The cost of medical care in Pakistan is often higher than in other countries, and the cost of health insurance can be prohibitive for many people. Additionally, the quality of healthcare in Pakistan is often lower than in other countries, making it difficult for people to access the care they need. As a result, many people in Pakistan are unable to access the healthcare they need, leading to poorer health outcomes," commented one expat living in Pakistan.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Lahore, Pakistan

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