Living Expenses in Lahore, Pakistan

Living Expenses in Lahore, Pakistan: A Complete 2025 Cost Guide

Lahore, the cultural heart of Pakistan, is a city where history, modern living, and warm hospitality blend beautifully. Whether you are a student, an expatriate, a digital nomad, or someone planning to relocate, understanding the **living expenses in Lahore** is essential for budgeting wisely. This comprehensive guide provides a clear breakdown of accommodation, food, transport, utilities, and lifestyle costs, giving you a realistic idea of what it takes to live comfortably in Lahore in 2025.

1. Overview: Is Lahore an Affordable City?

Compared with major cities across Asia and the Middle East, Lahore remains **relatively affordable**, especially when it comes to food, transport, and basic services. The cost of living can vary depending on your lifestyle—luxury living can be expensive, while modest living remains budget-friendly.

For most people, living comfortably in Lahore ranges between:

Budget living: PKR 45,000 – 65,000 per month

Moderate lifestyle: PKR 80,000 – 150,000 per month

Premium lifestyle: PKR 200,000+ per month

These figures exclude one-time expenses such as visa fees, school admission costs, or major household purchases.

2. Accommodation Costs in Lahore

Housing is the biggest factor that influences the overall **cost of living in Lahore**. Prices vary depending on the area, type of property, and facilities offered.

Popular Areas for Expats and Students

DHA & Gulberg – upscale, secure, and modern

Johar Town – mid-range, family-friendly

Bahria Town – clean, organised, and ideal for long-term living

Wapda Town, Faisal Town, Model Town – balanced and affordable

Average Monthly Rent

1-bed flat (good area): PKR 30,000 – 55,000

2-bed flat (mid-range): PKR 45,000 – 80,000

3-bed flat/house (family homes): PKR 70,000 – 150,000+

Room in a shared house (students): PKR 10,000 – 20,000

If you prefer gated communities with modern amenities such as security, parks, and shopping areas, you’ll likely pay on the higher end.

3. Food and Grocery Costs

One of the biggest advantages of living in Lahore is its **affordable food scene**. From street food to fine dining, the city offers something for every budget.

Monthly Grocery Budget

A single person typically spends:

PKR 10,000 – 20,000 (basic groceries)

PKR 20,000 – 35,000 (mid-range: meat, fruits, packaged goods)

Eating Out

Street food (Halwa-Puri, Chana, Shawarma): PKR 200 – 500

Local restaurants: PKR 600 – 1,500 per meal

Cafés & Western food: PKR 1,500 – 3,500 per meal

Fine dining: PKR 5,000+ per person

Lahore is famous for its food, and while dining out can add up, the city still offers plenty of budget-friendly options.

4. Transport Costs in Lahore

Transport is fairly inexpensive compared with many global cities.

Daily Transport Options

Rickshaw (short distance): PKR 150 – 300

Careem/Uber within city: PKR 300 – 900

Orange Line Metro Train: PKR 60 per ride

Local buses: PKR 40 – 100

Owning a Car

Fuel (petrol): approx. PKR 280 – 300 per litre

Monthly fuel for moderate use: PKR 10,000 – 25,000

Maintenance: PKR 3,000 – 8,000 monthly

For students and office commuters, public transport remains the cheapest choice.

5. Utility Bills

Utilities depend on usage, weather, and the size of your home.

Average Monthly Utility Costs

Electricity (summer AC usage): PKR 25,000/- to 50,000/-

Electricity (winter): PKR 12,000/- to 24,000/-

Gas: PKR 5,000 – 10,000

Water: Usually included in rent (PKR  500/- to 1000/-)

Internet (fibre): PKR  4,000

Mobile package: PKR  2,500

Electricity is the most expensive utility, especially during the summer months when temperatures rise.

6. Education and Health Expenses

If you are moving with family, you’ll need to budget for schools or medical facilities.

Education Costs

Private schools (mid-range): PKR 15,000 – 30,000 per month

Top-tier schools: PKR 30,000 – 60,000+

Universities: PKR 2,00,000 – 5,00,000 per semester

Health Care

General doctor visit: PKR 2,000 – 4,000

Specialist: PKR 5,000 – 10,000

Health insurance (private): PKR 10,000 – 30,000 per month

Lahore offers quality medical and educational facilities, though costs vary widely.

7. Lifestyle, Entertainment & Miscellaneous Costs

Lahore offers a great mix of parks, cinemas, shopping malls and recreational spaces.

Monthly Lifestyle Expenses

Gym membership: PKR 6,000 – 20,000

Cinema ticket: PKR 1,500 – 3,000

Shopping (clothes): PKR 6,000 – 30,000 per month

Saloon/Barber: PKR 600 – 4,000

Weekend outings: PKR 4,000 – 16,000

Entertainment and leisure in Lahore are quite affordable unless you prefer high-end venues.

8. Total Monthly Budget Summary

Here’s a quick overview of average monthly expenses:

| Lifestyle Type     | Average Monthly Cost |

| ——————     | ——————– |

| Budget                | PKR 45,000 – 65,000  |

| Moderate             | PKR 80,000 – 150,000 |

| Comfort/Luxury | PKR 200,000+         |

Your lifestyle choices—where you live, eat, and shop—will shape your overall monthly budget.

9. Final Thoughts: Is Lahore Worth Living In?

Absolutely. Lahore remains one of the most affordable yet vibrant cities in South Asia. The **low cost of living**, combined with rich culture, delicious food, and friendly people, makes it an attractive destination for locals and foreigners alike. Whether you are planning to study, work, or settle down, Lahore offers a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.

If you are searching for a city that blends affordability with cultural charm, Lahore is truly a fantastic choice.