As public transportation costs worldwide continue to rise, Pakistan stands out as a rare exception. A study by an Australian research firm analyzing fare structures across 123 countries ranks Pakistan among the most affordable countries for daily commuters.
According to the 2025 World Public Transport Cost Index, Pakistan ranks fifth cheapest globally, placing it well ahead of many wealthier regions where transport costs have risen sharply in recent years.
The report underscores stark disparities in global fare affordability, revealing that while some nations are rapidly becoming unaffordable for ordinary commuters, others, like Pakistan, have retained comparatively affordable transit pricing.
At the upper end of the index sits Iceland, ranked as the world’s most expensive country for public transport, where a single ride can cost more than Rs1,500.
The report notes that countries such as Switzerland, the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway also feature prominently among the costliest, reflecting the high price of mobility across much of Europe.
The United Kingdom, New Zealand, Australia, and Finland further round out the top tier of expensive transport markets.
In sharp contrast, Luxembourg remains the cheapest country in the world, offering entirely free public transport, a policy that has placed it at the very bottom of the cost index. It is followed by Nicaragua, Sri Lanka, Syria, and then Pakistan, solidifying Pakistan’s position among the most affordable nations for commuters.
While Pakistan has successfully kept transport costs within reach for everyday citizens, the report highlights a notable regional comparison: India. Despite its massive reliance on buses, metros, and local trains, India ranks significantly lower in affordability, at 17th in the index.
The findings come at a time when inflation pressures, fuel costs, and rising operational expenses have compelled many governments worldwide to raise fares, significantly affecting accessibility and mobility for the working class. Pakistan’s ability to keep public transportation affordable offers an important counter-narrative within this global trend.
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