Key points

  • Islamabad earned a score of 140.7 in Numbeo’s 2026 Mid‑Year Quality of Life Index.
  • The capital outranked global metropolises such as London, Paris and New York in the latest ranking.
  • Improvements in safety, healthcare accessibility and purchasing power were cited as primary drivers of the rise.
  • The result underscores Pakistan’s ongoing urban development initiatives and may attract further domestic and foreign investment.

Islamabad has climbed to the top of Numbeo’s 2026 Mid‑Year Quality of Life Index with a rating of 140.7 points, placing it ahead of some of the world’s most renowned cities. The Pakistani capital surpassed Paris, which logged 138.8 points, and also outperformed London and New York, marking a notable shift in the perception of livability in South Asia.

Analysts attribute the city’s upward trajectory to measurable gains in several key dimensions. Crime statistics have shown a steady decline, contributing to a stronger sense of personal safety for residents. The health sector has benefited from expanded public‑private partnerships, resulting in more affordable and accessible medical services. Meanwhile, the cost‑of‑living balance has improved as purchasing power rises, thanks in part to steady wage growth and targeted economic reforms.

Local authorities view the ranking as validation of the Capital Development Authority’s long‑term urban planning strategy, which has focused on expanding green spaces, upgrading public transport, and modernising infrastructure. The higher score is expected to boost confidence among investors and expatriates considering relocation, potentially spurring further real‑estate development and tourism in the region.

While the figures are encouraging, officials caution that sustaining the momentum will require continued attention to challenges such as air quality, traffic congestion and housing affordability. Nonetheless, the latest Numbeo assessment signals that Islamabad is emerging as a competitive alternative to traditional global hubs, offering a quality of life that is increasingly attractive to both Pakistanis and the international community.