
The cost of living in Turkey varies significantly depending on the city or region, lifestyle, and spending habits. Here’s a general overview of life expenses in Turkey as of 2025.
The cost of living in Turkey in 2025:
As of early 2025, Turkey presents a cost of living that is generally lower than many Western nations, though Turkey cost of living can vary significantly based on location, lifestyle, and economic factors also your average salary in Turkey per month.
Housing costs
Housing remains a primary expense for residents. In major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, rental prices are higher, especially in central areas.
For instance, a one-bedroom apartment in Istanbul’s city center may cost between 8,000 to 17,000 Turkish Lira (TRY) per month. Utilities, including electricity, heating, water, and garbage collection for an 85m² apartment, typically range from 600 to 900 TRY monthly.
Internet services with speeds of 60 Mbps or higher are approximately 150 to 200 TRY per month.
Grocery and Food Expenses
Grocery prices in Turkey are relatively affordable. Basic items such as milk cost around 25 TRY per liter, bread is approximately 5 TRY per loaf, and a dozen eggs are about 35 TRY.
Fresh produce is particularly economical at local markets, with a kilogram of apples priced around 20 TRY and tomatoes about 15 TRY.
Transportation
Public transportation is both efficient and cost-effective. A monthly pass for buses, trams, and metros in major cities ranges from 500 to 700 TRY.
Taxis are also reasonably priced, with a starting fare of 70 TRY and approximately 35 TRY per kilometer.
Health Care
Turkey has a well-developed healthcare system with both public and private options. While public healthcare is free for residents, many expatriates and locals prefer private healthcare due to shorter waiting times.
Health insurance premiums vary but generally cost around 300 to 600 TRY per month for comprehensive coverage.
Education
For families with children, education costs vary. Public schools are free, but private international schools can be costly, ranging from 60,000 to 250,000 TRY per year, depending on the school and grade level.
Dining Out
Eating out offers good value. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around 150 TRY, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant typically amounts to 800 to 1,200 TRY.
Fast food options, like a McDonald’s combo meal, are available for about 150 TRY.
Entertainment and Leisure
Entertainment and leisure activities are affordable. A movie ticket costs around 250 TRY, while monthly gym memberships range from 1,000 to 2,000 TRY.
Cultural activities, such as visiting museums and historical sites, are also reasonably priced, often between 50 and 100 TRY per entry.

Cost of living in Turkey
How much money do I need to live comfortably in Istanbul?
Life expenses in Istanbul, Turkey’s largest and most cosmopolitan city, can vary widely depending on some factors.
These estimates can vary depending on personal lifestyle, specific neighborhood, and individual spending habits. Istanbul’s more upscale neighborhoods like Nişantaşı, Bebek, and Levent tend to be more expensive, while areas like Kadıköy, Üsküdar, and Bağcılar offer more affordable living options.
Economic Considerations
Turkey has experienced significant economic fluctuations in recent years. As of December 2024, the central bank initiated a rate-cutting cycle, reducing its key interest rate by 250 basis points to 47.5%, aiming to address prolonged economic instability and a cost-of-living crisis.
Annual inflation declined to 44% in December 2024, down from 47% in November.
Despite these economic challenges, Turkey continues to offer a relatively affordable cost of living, especially when compared to many Western countries.

Turkey cost of living
Conclusion:
Life in Turkey for foreigners can be a rewarding and enriching experience, though it comes with its own set of challenges and adjustments.
Overall, Turkey offers a relatively low cost of living compared to many Western countries, making it an attractive destination for expatriates, retirees, and digital nomads.
Major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir tend to be more expensive, while smaller towns and rural areas offer more affordable living conditions.
If you want to buy projects in Alanya or buy property in Istanbul totally if you are interested in Turkey investment, we are here at Travok real estate and construction to help you.
If you have any questions about Turkey citizenship by investment or Turkish residency buy buying apartment in Turkey contact our experts.
Also for more information about buying property in Dubai or Turkish banks check our website.
A single person needs around $800–$1,500 per month, while a couple may need $1,500–$2,500, depending on the city and lifestyle.
The minimum wage in 2025 is around $550 per month, while skilled professionals earn between $1,000–$3,000 per month.
A monthly public transport pass costs around $20–$40. Taxis and fuel are relatively cheap compared to Europe.
Foreigners may need residence permits ($50–$150 annually) and private health insurance ($50–$150 per month), but other costs are similar to locals.
ela
on said
This article about the cost of living in Turkey was so useful for me
travok
on said
We are so happy to hear that.
Aslan
on said
Petrol is expensive in Turkey
Henrik
on said
How has the cost of living in Turkey changed recently, and is it still affordable for expats?
Maria
on said
Prices have gone up, especially rent and food, but it’s still cheaper than many European countries.
Tormod
on said
It depends on the city—living in Istanbul is expensive, but smaller cities are much more affordable!