Quetta district is ethnically diverse. A colourful culture can be seen in the district. The district is multilingual in the sense that there are five major ethnic groups, and each group has its own cultural values. They are Pashtoons, Balochs, Brahuis, Hazaras and Punjabis. Some other minor ethnic groups like Urdu speaking Mehajirs and Sindhis are also living in the city. The mode of living differs from group to group. In the urban area except Kachi Abadis, the way of living is somewhat modern especially among the wealthier people. In the rural area, the style of living is more traditional.

The major sources of income of the residents are trade, transport, government jobs, agriculture and mining. The informal sector is also playing a very significant role in generating income. Like in other urban centres, in Quetta city a large number of shops, street vendors, small garages (auto repair shops)