Cost of Living in Istanbul

The cost of living in Istanbul is a financial paradox: expensive for locals earning lira, but a bargain for expats with foreign currency. Currency depreciation and energy prices are fuelling inflation that hits locals hardest. However, expats earning in a stronger foreign currency will find that their purchasing power here is comparatively high.

For new arrivals, accommodation will likely be the most significant expense, while fresh produce remains reasonably priced compared to Western Europe. That said, your monthly spend depends entirely on whether you choose imported luxury goods or live like a local.

Cost of accommodation in Istanbul

Finding a home in this sprawling metropolis requires you to balance location and convenience against the cost of accommodation in Istanbul. Rent will likely take the biggest bite out of your monthly budget, and prices vary significantly depending on the neighbourhood, property type, and whether the landlord sets the price in Turkish lira or a foreign currency.

Houses and apartments with views of the Bosphorus are available on both the Asian and European sides. Properties on the European side – particularly in upscale districts like Bebek and Nişantaşı – tend to be pricier. More affordable options can be found in districts like Kartal and Maltepe.

Rental laws offer some protection, but regulations have tightened. Since the government scrapped the 25 percent rent increase cap in July 2024, landlords can raise rents based on the 12-month Consumer Price Index (CPI) average. You should also budget for a security deposit and an agent’s fee – often a substantial sum – along with monthly maintenance fees (aidat) that are rarely included in the quoted rent.

Renting Accommodation and Utilities in Istanbul

Cost of transport in Istanbul

While costs vary, the city’s public transport network is vast and surprisingly cheap. With an expanding metro network, trams, ferries, and the high-speed Metrobüs system, getting around the city is often quicker and cheaper than driving.

Commuters use the Istanbulkart, a reloadable transit card that works across all modes of public transport. The Metrobüs, which operates in dedicated lanes on the road, is a reliable option for traversing the city’s east-west axis, and 24/7 services on select routes have improved late-night accessibility.

Most expats find they can live happily without a car, as parking is limited and petrol prices are high. For those who do drive, choosing a fuel-efficient vehicle is essential. You can slash costs by shopping around for insurance and sticking to public transport for short hops.

Getting Around in Istanbul

Cost of groceries and goods in Istanbul

While inflation has pushed up shelf prices, you can still find value by shopping for seasonal local produce at weekly bazaars. Summer markets overflow with cheap tomatoes and melons, replaced by root vegetables as autumn sets in.

Turkey's currency fluctuations and heavy import taxes make foreign brands and imported goods like electronics and speciality Western foods comparatively exorbitant. Alcohol is similarly expensive.

For fresh groceries, you can visit local markets like the Kadıköy Salı Pazarı (Tuesday Market) or the Beşiktaş Saturday Market, where vendors sell quality produce at lower prices than the supermarkets.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Istanbul

There are tonnes of entertainment options in Turkey that range from free visits to historic sights and cultural festivals to expensive outings that take advantage of the city's active nightlife and fine dining scene. Your monthly spend will depend entirely on your lifestyle. You will find something for every budget, whether you visit centuries-old landmarks or sample local street food.

While the city hosts many affordable cultural events, entry fees for major museums and historical sites have risen sharply for international visitors, with tickets often priced in euros. If you want to avoid tourist premiums, neighbourhoods like Kadıköy and Beyoğlu offer a more authentic atmosphere. Kadıköy’s Moda district is known for its live music venues, local theatres, and café culture, while Beyoğlu – home to the famous İstiklal Avenue – offers everything from historic cinemas to jazz bars.

You can grab a quick bite at a street stall or dine in luxury by the Bosphorus. You can pick up affordable staples like simit and lahmacun on the go, or visit international restaurants if you crave a taste of home. Dining near tourist hotspots is invariably pricier, so heading into local neighbourhoods will usually secure you a better deal.

Lifestyle, Shopping, Attractions and Activities in Istanbul

Cost of education in Istanbul

The cost of education in Istanbul varies widely depending on whether you choose public, private, or international schooling for your children.

Public schools are free, but the language of instruction is Turkish, which is a hurdle if your children do not speak the language. They follow a national curriculum with a strong emphasis on standardised testing, and some Turkish schools offer supplementary language support for international students. Private Turkish schools often offer bilingual education and better facilities than state schools, but they still adhere to the national curriculum and language requirements.

International schools have globally recognised curricula like the IB, British, American or Canadian systems. Class sizes are generally smaller here, and there’s a higher likelihood that your kids can make friends who share their background. Many expat families prefer this route to ensure a seamless transition to universities abroad, but fees can be remarkably high. You should also budget for the substantial one-off registration or ‘entrance’ fees, which are standard practice at top-tier institutions.

If your child is not fluent in Turkish, you might consider supplementary language programmes offered by private tutors to assist with their adaptation.

Education and Schools in Istanbul
International Schools in Istanbul

Cost of healthcare in Istanbul

Healthcare costs depend on your coverage, but standards are generally high, and prices are lower than in much of Western Europe and the US. The city offers both public and private options, although private hospitals generally offer faster service, and you are more likely to find doctors who speak English.

Public healthcare is subsidised through the Social Security Institution (SGK). If you are employed in Turkey, your employer automatically covers you; if you are unemployed, you can apply to join the scheme voluntarily after residing in Turkey for one year. SGK provides access to government hospitals and some private facilities at discounted rates, although public institutions often contend with high patient demand.

Private hospitals can provide faster service and modern medical technology, and they’re popular with expats. New regulations introduced in April 2025 require residence permit applications to include private health insurance policies with significantly higher minimum coverage limits for both inpatient and outpatient care.

Many long-term residents choose a mix of SGK and private health insurance to balance affordability with access to premium care. Private plans vary, but typically include access to a wider network of hospitals and reduced waiting times.

Healthcare and Health Insurance in Istanbul