Cost of Living: Graz vs Istanbul (2026)

Graz is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $772/month in Graz vs $1070/month in the other city (Numbeo data).

Graz is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Graz has a rate of 0.88 per 100,000 and Istanbul has 2.64 per 100,000.

Graz scores 77 to Istanbul's 52 on livability — the gap is real. Istanbul has its charms, but the numbers favor Graz. See the full comparison above for rent, safety, internet speed, climate, and democracy scores to decide which city fits your priorities.

Graz: no specific remote work visa. Istanbul: Turkey Short-Term Residence Permit (easy to get, 1–2 years (renewable)). See each city's profile page for full requirements.

Istanbul is warmer in summer (28°C vs 25°C). Graz has milder summers, which suits those who prefer cooler weather. Climate preference is personal — use the weather section above to compare seasons.

Graz is easier for street-level English (74/100) than Istanbul (31/100). That's the score that matters for doctors, landlords, and bureaucracy. Office English can still run higher than street English in both cities.