Cost of Living in Quetta 2026

Quetta, the capital city of Balochistan, is renowned for its serene environment, pleasant weather, and lower cost of living compared to major cities like Karachi and Lahore. Many individuals, including students, government employees, and families, are drawn to Quetta because it offers a simple and affordable lifestyle. The city's calm atmosphere and relatively low expenses make it an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful living experience.

In this article, we will explore the average monthly cost of living in Quetta for the year 2026, covering rent, food, transportation, utilities, education, and healthcare.

Housing and Rent in Quetta

Housing is usually the largest expense for most people. Compared to other major cities in Pakistan, rent in Quetta is quite affordable.

A single person can expect to pay between PKR 12,000 to PKR 25,000 per month for a small portion or flat, depending on the location. For a small family, a 2-bedroom house or portion usually costs between PKR 20,000 to PKR 40,000.

Popular residential areas such as Jinnah Town, Satellite Town, and Brewery Road are slightly more expensive but offer better facilities and a secure living environment.

Food and Grocery Expenses

Food expenses in Quetta are reasonable, with fresh vegetables and fruits easily available in local markets. Cooking at home significantly helps in reducing monthly expenses.

On average, a single person spends around PKR 10,000 to PKR 15,000 per month on groceries, while a small family usually spends between PKR 18,000 to PKR 30,000.

Dining out is also affordable. A normal meal at a local restaurant costs around PKR 300 to PKR 500, while a better restaurant may charge between PKR 800 to PKR 1,200 per person.

Transportation Costs

Transportation costs in Quetta remain low due to the city's compact size and minimal traffic. Many residents prefer motorcycles or local transport.

Monthly transportation expenses for public transport or rickshaws usually range between PKR 3,000 to PKR 6,000. Motorcycle users generally spend around PKR 4,000 to PKR 7,000 per month on fuel.

Utility Bills and Internet

Utility bills depend on usage, especially during extreme weather conditions. Electricity bills usually increase during summer months due to fans and coolers.

On average, electricity and gas bills combined cost around PKR 4,000 to PKR 8,000 per month for a small household.

Internet services are available through PTCL and other local providers, with a reliable connection costing between PKR 2,000 to PKR 3,500 per month.

Education Expenses

Education in Quetta is affordable compared to other cities. Private school fees usually range between PKR 2,500 to PKR 6,000 per child.

Colleges and universities also offer reasonable fee structures, making Quetta a suitable option for students.

Healthcare and Medical Costs

Healthcare costs in Quetta are relatively low. Government hospitals provide affordable treatment, while private clinics also charge reasonable fees.

Monthly medical expenses for an average individual usually remain under PKR 2,000 to PKR 4,000, unless there is a serious medical condition.

Total Monthly Cost of Living in Quetta

For a single person, the average monthly cost of living in Quetta ranges between PKR 35,000 to PKR 50,000.

For a small family, monthly expenses usually fall between PKR 55,000 to PKR 80,000, depending on lifestyle and area.

Is Quetta an Affordable City?

Quetta is one of the most affordable cities in Pakistan. It offers low rent, affordable food, minimal transportation costs, and a peaceful lifestyle.

This makes Quetta an ideal city for students, government employees, freelancers, and small families. Whether you are planning to move or already living here, managing expenses in Quetta is much easier compared to many other cities.