7.1.3. Poverty

In October 2025, the World Bank reported a poverty rate of 3.5 % in Islamabad, the lowest among Pakistan’s districts.1998 According to the District Vulnerability Index for Pakistan (DVIP) 2025, out of 129 districts, Islamabad ranked twelfth among Pakistan’s least overall vulnerable districts. Ranking overall vulnerability was based on six categories: housing, communication & transportation, livelihoods, access to health services, access to public education and demographics.1999 As of December 2025, the cost of living in Islamabad was 15 % above the Pakistani average and the average yearly salary was 1 880 829 Pakistani rupees [approximately EUR 5 696.7].2000 Reportedly, the monthly salary of a young professional in Islamabad was the equivalent of 155 US dollars [approximately EUR 131.2], whereas his monthly cost of living could exceed 440 US dollars [approximately EUR 372.2]. Food prices, rent, transportation and, above all, electricity have all increased.2001 Reasons for poverty in Islamabad’s slums may have been people’s low-salaried occupations, low expenditure on education and income and expenditure inequality.2002