Moving to Istanbul but unsure how much it will cost? Without proper planning, expenses like rent, utilities, and food can quickly exceed your expectations, making daily living challenging. From rising rent prices to fluctuating food costs, the cost of living in Istanbul can vary widely. The solution? A detailed breakdown of housing, food, transport, and other essential expenses will help you budget efficiently, whether you’re an expat, a digital nomad, or a long-term resident.
Some Practical Information
As for the cost of living in Istanbul for expats or locals; we can say that; as of January 2025, regarding all the living costs inc. flat rentals;
- If you are getting paid above 250.000 TL per month, you may happily live in Istanbul.
- If you are getting paid between 75.000-250.000 TL per month, than you may live in Istanbul not so good and not so bad.
- If you are getting paid below 75.000 TL per month, than you may live in Istanbul in unhappiness and stress.
- According to some academic and on the field researches, the minimum wage for living in Istanbul on the edge of the poverty is around 68.675 TL (as of December 2024) for an average family with 2 kids, and hunger threshold is around 21.083 TL.
- Cost of living for a “single person” as an employee is around 27.365 TL.
- Housing costs in Istanbul range from $210-$3,500 per month, depending on the neighborhood and apartment size.
- Food expenses vary widely, with street food costing $2-$5 per meal, while dining at mid-range restaurants can cost around $10-$30 per person.
- Public transportation is affordable, with IstanbulKart rides costing $0.40-$0.80 per trip.
- Utilities and internet range from $63-$105 per month for utilities and $15-$30 for internet.
- Healthcare is affordable, with private doctor visits costing $20-$40, and health insurance plans ranging from $50-$100 per month.
Is Istanbul Expensive?
Istanbul used to be considered as a cheap city to live related with many major cities in the world and in Europe in a global context. But on the contrary, Istanbul has a high cost of living related with the other Turkish cities. Aside from being the largest and most popular city of Turkey, Istanbul is also the biggest cultural and financial center of Turkey.
Istanbul was ranked 130th over 227 cities in the world in the 2024 Mercer Cost of Living Survey (was 185th in 2023).
Cost of Living Survey is a survey that measures the costs of more than 200 items in comparison such as the costs of housing, transportation, food, clothing, house goods, entertainment and more. So it gives an idea for you to make a comparison between the other major cities in the world.
For the last 2 years, we can say that Istanbul is not that much each anymore, even expensive than many European countries.
Inflation in Turkey
Annual inflation for 2024 was realized as 44,38% annual (83% according to ENAG). 2025 inflation is expected to be 30%
What is The Minimum Wage in Turkey?
The minimum wage in Turkey rose to 22.104 Turkish lira per month as of 2025.
If we compare Istanbul with the other Western countries, we can say that Istanbul is a cheap city for daily groceries, supermarkets, medical care, local clothing, domestic help, local food, fresh vegetables & fruits at the weekly street markets.
But on the contrary; the expenses below are ridiculously very high; gasoline, automobiles, imported alcohol, imported goods such as electronics, mobile phones, cameras, computers…
Housing Costs in Istanbul
Rent is one of the most significant expenses when living in Istanbul, and prices vary greatly depending on location. Central areas like Besiktas, Kadikoy, and Taksim tend to be more expensive, while neighborhoods farther from the city center like Esenler or Kucukcekmece offer more affordable housing.
- Budget Rent: In suburban areas, expect to pay between $210-$650 per month for a basic one-bedroom apartment.
- Mid-Range Rent: In central areas, rent can range from $800-$2,000 for a one-bedroom or small two-bedroom apartment.
- Luxury Rent: High-end apartments with views of the Bosphorus can cost upwards of $2,500-$5,000 per month.
Tip: Renting in Istanbul usually requires a deposit of one or two months’ rent, and it’s common for tenants to cover additional costs like maintenance fees for shared building amenities.
Food and Grocery Costs
Food in Istanbul is generally affordable, but dining out or buying groceries depends on your lifestyle. While street food and casual eateries are budget-friendly, dining in high-end restaurants can quickly add up.
- Street Food & Budget Meals: Istanbul offers delicious, cheap eats like simit (Turkish bagels) or kebabs for around $2-$10 per meal.
- Mid-Range Dining: At moderately priced restaurants, you can expect to pay $10-$25 per person for a meal.
- Groceries: Weekly groceries for one person (basic staples like bread, vegetables, dairy, and meat) can cost around $40-$80.
Tip: Shopping in local and street markets, such as Balat or Kadikoy markets, can help lower your grocery costs. Imported products are more expensive, so try to stick to locally-sourced food items.
Transportation Costs
Istanbul’s extensive public transportation system makes it easy to get around affordably. The IstanbulKart is your key to using buses, trams, metros, and ferries.
- Public Transport: With an IstanbulKart, rides cost around $0.40-$0.80 depending on the distance and type of vehicle. Monthly public transport passes cost around $30-$40.
- Taxis: While taxis are available, they can be expensive and prone to scams. A 10-15 minute ride typically costs $5-$10, depending on traffic.
- Ride-Sharing: Apps like Uber and BiTaksi offer a safer and more reliable alternative to traditional taxis.
Tip: Stick to public transport whenever possible to avoid high taxi fares. The ferry rides are a great, affordable way to travel between the European and Asian sides of the city.
Utilities and Internet Costs
Utilities are an essential part of living expenses in Istanbul, and the cost varies depending on your apartment’s size, the season, and your usage.
- Electricity, Heating, and Water: Expect to pay between $63-$105 per month for utilities, with heating costs spiking in the winter.
- Internet: Basic internet packages with speeds of 16-50 Mbps cost around $15-$30 per month. Faster speeds or bundled services with TV and phone lines may cost more.
Tip: Istanbul’s winter can be cold, especially in older buildings without proper insulation, so factor in higher heating costs during the colder months.
Healthcare Costs
Healthcare in Istanbul is generally affordable, but the quality and cost of services can vary depending on whether you opt for public or private healthcare.
- Doctor’s Visits: A visit to a private doctor costs around $20-$40, while consultations at public hospitals are free for residents with insurance.
- Health Insurance: International health insurance or private plans cost around $50-$100 per month, providing access to better services and shorter wait times.
Tip: For expats, having private health insurance is highly recommended to ensure quicker access to quality care, especially in emergency situations.
Personal Care and Entertainment Costs
Your lifestyle in Istanbul will dictate how much you spend on personal care and entertainment. While there are affordable options, high-end services and events can be costly.
- Gym Memberships: Memberships at standard gyms cost $20-$40 per month, while luxury gyms in areas like Nisantasi or Besiktas can cost upwards of $100 per month.
- Entertainment: A night out, including drinks and dining, can cost $30-$60, depending on the venue. Movie tickets cost around $5-$10.
Tip: Look for free or low-cost cultural events, like outdoor concerts and festivals, to enjoy Istanbul’s vibrant arts scene without overspending.
Random Expenses and Hidden Costs
It’s easy to overlook miscellaneous expenses like mobile data, household goods, and even tipping in Istanbul.
- SIM Cards and Mobile Data: A prepaid SIM card with data and call services typically costs around $10-$15.
- Personal Care Items: Budget around $15-$30 per month for toiletries, cleaning products, and other household items.
- Tipping: Tipping is common in Istanbul, with 5-10% expected at restaurants and cafes.
Tip: Be prepared to negotiate rent, utilities, or service costs, especially in more informal markets like renting an apartment.
FAQs
What is the average cost of rent in Istanbul?
Rent prices in Istanbul vary significantly based on location. In more affordable neighborhoods, rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from $210-$450 per month, while in more central or upscale areas, rent can reach $600-$2,500 or more. Central districts like Besiktas and Kadikoy tend to be pricier.
How much does food cost in Istanbul?
Food prices in Istanbul can range from budget-friendly street food at $2-$5 per meal to mid-range restaurant dining at $10-$20 per person. Groceries for one person typically cost $40-$60 per week, depending on the type of food and whether you shop at local markets or supermarkets.
Where is the cheapest area to live in Istanbul?
Affordable areas in Istanbul include suburbs like Esenler, Bağcılar, and Küçükçekmece, where rent is lower compared to central areas. These neighborhoods offer cheaper housing options, but commuting to the city center might take more time due to traffic or public transportation schedules.
Why is rent so expensive in Istanbul?
Rent in Istanbul has increased due to high demand, especially in popular areas like Besiktas and Taksim. Factors such as increased tourism, a growing expat community, and a rising population have driven up rent prices. Proximity to amenities, public transport, and historical sites also affect the cost of rent.
How much does public transport cost in Istanbul?
Public transport in Istanbul is very affordable. Using an IstanbulKart, a single ride on buses, trams, or ferries costs about $0.40-$0.80. Monthly passes are available for $30-$40, making commuting around the city more economical. Ferries offer an affordable way to travel between the European and Asian sides of the city.
What is the average utility cost in Istanbul?
Monthly utility bills in Istanbul range from $63-$105, covering electricity, heating, water, and gas. Heating costs rise during the winter months due to cold weather. Internet service typically costs between $15-$30 per month, depending on the package and provider.
How much does healthcare cost in Istanbul?
Healthcare costs in Istanbul are relatively affordable. A visit to a private doctor usually costs around $20-$40, and public healthcare services are available to residents with local health insurance. Private health insurance plans for expats can range from $50-$100 per month, depending on the coverage.
Will I need health insurance to live in Istanbul?
Yes, having health insurance is recommended when living in Istanbul. Expats and digital nomads typically opt for private insurance, which costs around $50-$100 per month and offers access to better healthcare facilities and faster services. Local residents have access to public healthcare.
How much should I budget for groceries in Istanbul?
On average, one person can expect to spend around $40-$80 per week on groceries in Istanbul. This includes basic items like bread, vegetables, fruit, dairy, and meat. Shopping at local markets is often more affordable than supermarkets, especially for fresh produce.
Where can I find affordable housing in Istanbul?
Affordable housing in Istanbul can be found in suburbs like Esenler, Bağcılar, and Küçükçekmece. These areas offer lower rent prices compared to more central neighborhoods. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in these areas typically costs between $210-$450 per month.