Iloilo vs. Islamabad: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

This report compares the cost of living and quality of life between Iloilo, Philippines, and Islamabad, Pakistan, based on 2026 data. Iloilo presents a significantly more affordable option, particularly concerning income generation and overall expenses. The average monthly net income in Iloilo is substantially lower ($150) compared to Islamabad ($906), yet the cost of basic necessities, including groceries, transportation, and utilities, is considerably less. This results in a much higher income-to-cost ratio in Iloilo, making it financially more accessible for residents. While Islamabad offers higher purchasing power due to the larger income, the overall expense burden is significantly lower in Iloilo.

Housing is a major component, but the comparison shows stark differences. A 3-bedroom apartment in the city center of Iloilo averages $1,000 per month, while the same in Islamabad is a significantly higher $10,000. Furthermore, the property price-to-income ratio is much lower in Iloilo (16.7) than in Islamabad (30.0), indicating that housing is a smaller financial burden relative to income in Iloilo. Transportation costs also reflect this disparity; a monthly public transport pass in Iloilo costs just $0.3, compared to $10.7 in Islamabad, and owning a car is substantially cheaper in Iloilo ($2,000/month vs. $4,000/month). Fuel prices are also lower in Iloilo ($0.8/gallon vs. $0.9/gallon).

Daily living expenses, particularly food, show a clear advantage for Iloilo. Groceries for two people cost $100/month in Iloilo versus $150/month in Islamabad. Fast food meals and dining out are also significantly cheaper in Iloilo ($5.3 vs. $10.1 for a combo meal). While childcare costs are higher in Islamabad ($73/month for private preschool vs. $0.3/month in Iloilo), other service costs like clothing and utilities present a mixed picture. Iloilo has lower utility bills ($10/month vs. $100/month) and cheaper clothing items (Jeans: $10 vs. $21), although cinema tickets are slightly more expensive ($4 vs. $3).

Income potential is vastly different, with Islamabad offering a much higher average net salary ($906/month vs. $150/month). However, healthcare costs are negligible in Iloilo ($0/month) compared to the $10/month in Islamabad, suggesting potentially more accessible or state-run healthcare in the Philippines. Quality of life metrics paint a complex picture. Iloilo has lower pollution levels (Index: 16.7) and a slightly shorter average commute time (10 minutes). Islamabad residents enjoy higher salaries but face significantly longer commutes (40 minutes) and much higher property prices. The city's quality of life score is higher (7/10) than Iloilo's (6/10), but this is heavily influenced by the higher income and potentially better public services in Islamabad, despite the high cost of living.

Iloilo is the clear winner for affordability and lower cost of living. Residents can stretch their income much further due to lower housing, food, transportation, and general expense costs. While Islamabad offers significantly higher income potential and potentially better public services (like healthcare), the overall financial burden is substantially greater. The choice between the two cities depends heavily on individual financial priorities. A lower income in Iloilo comes with significantly lower expenses, resulting in a better quality of life for those prioritizing affordability. Islamabad may be suitable for those with higher earning potential willing to manage a much higher cost of living.