🇹🇷 Cost of Living in Istanbul
How much you'll actually spend — not what travel blogs tell you
Monthly budget · Single · city center
$1,570/mo
Just you and your questionable life decisions
The real monthly damage
Rent — the biggest line item
Source: Numbeo. Prices in USD unless toggled.
Grocery prices — the supermarket reality check
Eating out — because you won't cook every night
Getting around — or trying to
30-day trial run
What a month-long scouting trip costs before you commit to anything permanent.
Istanbul vs. similar cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Istanbul?▼
A single person can expect to spend about $1,570/month in Istanbul, including rent in the city center, groceries, transport, and utilities. Couples need roughly $1,978/month.
What is the average salary in Istanbul?▼
The average monthly net salary (after tax) in Istanbul is about $1,190, according to Numbeo data.
Is Istanbul expensive compared to other cities?▼
Compared to similar cities: Split ($1,953/mo), Faro ($1,751/mo), Gothenburg ($1,785/mo), Malmo ($1,887/mo), Seville ($1,626/mo). Istanbul comes in at $1,570/mo for a single person.
Cost data sourced from Numbeo. Updated periodically.