Cost of Living in Turkey

Expats may find the daily cost of living in Turkey surprisingly manageable compared to many other European destinations. The Turkish Lira isn’t the strongest currency, so you can stretch your budget further if you earn in pounds or dollars. That’s especially true in popular coastal resorts or thriving metropolitan areas.

Istanbul, the biggest hub for newcomers, tends to be the priciest city in Turkey. But its living costs are still lower than in several major European centres. Ankara, the country’s capital, is easier on your wallet if your priority is saving money rather than living on the edge of the Bosphorus. Like anywhere, your lifestyle and location have the biggest impact on your expenses. Rural villages will cost you less, while high-end imported items or luxe surroundings can pile on the bills.

Cost of accommodation in Turkey

The cost of accommodation in Turkey can be quite favourable compared to the US or the UK. You’ll find everything from luxurious villas perched atop scenic hills to minimalistic apartments offering the bare essentials. Many people weigh up whether it’s better to buy or rent when they relocate here.

Buying property typically involves a heftier investment, especially once you factor in extras like legal fees and potential renovation costs. Renting offers more wiggle room because you’ll often only need a security deposit (usually one or two months’ rent) and a signed lease agreement.

When you’re ready to search for a place, try to find a reliable real estate agent by checking credentials with local industry associations. Recommendations from friends or expat forums can also help you avoid wild goose chases.

Renting Accommodation and Utilities in Turkey

Cost of transport in Turkey

The cost of public transport in Turkey is incredibly affordable, with buses, ferries and the metro costing a fraction of what you would pay in Europe. Buses with affordable flat fares are the workhorse of travel in most cities, and dolmuş (shared minibuses) help you hop short distances cheaply. Routes and schedules frequently change, so it’s wise to follow city transport websites or social media updates to stay in the loop.

If you plan to drive, you’ll be cruising on the right-hand side of the road. However, owning and driving a car is a different story. Vehicles and fuel carry heavy taxes, and the cost of driving here dwarfs that of the USA and rivals the most expensive countries in Europe. Several major highways use an electronic toll system called HGS, which relies on a prepaid RFID sticker attached to your windscreen. Parking rules also vary by city. While you will see attendants charging fees for designated street spots, many urban areas (like Istanbul with its ISPARK system) use municipal apps or automated barriers instead of traditional parking meters.

Public Transport and Driving in Turkey

Cost of groceries in Turkey

The cost of groceries in Turkey depends largely on where and how you shop. Local markets (pazars) remain a staple for fresh, seasonal produce at bargain prices. These lively bazaars allow you to buy fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and spices directly from farmers.

Before making a purchase, it’s worth strolling through the market to compare prices and quality. Many vendors offer similar products, but the freshest and best-priced items often sell out early in the day. Towards closing time, some sellers drop their prices to clear stock, so shopping late can also be a budget-friendly strategy.

If you prefer the convenience of modern supermarkets, you’ll find a mix of local and imported products. While Turkish staples are generally affordable, international brands and speciality items come at a premium.

Grocery delivery services are becoming more widespread, particularly in larger cities. Apps like Getir and Trendyol Go allow you to order essentials straight to your door, but be mindful of delivery fees and potential markups compared to in-person shopping.

One unexpected cost for many is bottled water. While tap water in major cities like Istanbul and Ankara is officially treated and safe at the source, most residents avoid drinking it due to the taste of chlorine and distrust of old building pipes. The most cost-effective option is to buy in bulk – the 5-gallon (19L) refillable jugs, known as a damacana, are widely available and inexpensive.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Turkey

When it comes to the cost of entertainment and eating out in Turkey, the country’s economy operates on two levels. Street food and local lokantas are cheap, but ‘dollar inflation’ has hammered the mid-range and luxury sectors. A night out in a trendy Istanbul district can cost as much as one in London or Paris, regardless of which currency you earn. Alcohol is also heavily taxed, making a night out pricier than you might expect.

For an affordable and authentic meal, head to a lokanta, a local eatery offering home-style Turkish dishes at reasonable prices. Many of these places operate cafeteria style, where you can pick from a selection of freshly prepared meals. Street food is another budget-friendly way to experience Turkey’s diverse flavours. Popular options include balık ekmek (grilled fish sandwiches), midye dolma (stuffed mussels), lahmacun (thin, crispy flatbread with minced meat), and çiğ köfte (spiced bulgur wraps).

Entertainment options in Turkey range from historical and cultural attractions to modern nightlife. You can visit ancient ruins and museums, or take in traditional Turkish music and dance performances. Many cities host free or low-cost cultural festivals, which are an excellent way to immerse yourself in local traditions without stretching your budget.

Lifestyle, Shopping, Attractions, and Activities in Istanbul

Cost of education in Turkey

The cost of education in Turkey varies widely depending on the type of school and location. While public and private Turkish schools are generally more affordable than their Western counterparts, many expat families opt for international schools due to the language of instruction and curriculum alignment with home country education systems.

International schools are concentrated in major cities like Istanbul and Ankara, with a few options in Izmir and Antalya. These schools follow curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), British (English National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, and A-levels), and the American Advanced Placement (AP) system.

Admission processes vary by institution, but you’ll typically need to submit school records from the past two years, along with health documents and copies of passports. The academic year runs from September to June, so students transferring from countries with different school calendars may face placement adjustments.

Education and Schools in Turkey

Cost of healthcare in Turkey

Healthcare in Turkey is known for its high quality and affordability, and it’s a popular destination for medical tourism. You have access to both public and private healthcare, but most foreigners prefer private facilities due to shorter waiting times and a higher likelihood of English-speaking doctors.

The public healthcare system (SGK) is extensive but can be slow due to high patient demand. While treatment costs are low, finding English-speaking medical staff in public hospitals may be challenging. In contrast, private hospitals offer faster service, modern equipment, and specialist care at a higher cost. Many private hospitals in Turkey’s larger cities have internationally trained doctors and provide services in multiple languages.

You will need health insurance to use private healthcare, and it is also a mandatory requirement for all foreigners under 65 applying for a residence permit. Expats can choose between local Turkish insurance providers and comprehensive international insurers. When selecting a plan, compare coverage options and hospital networks, and check the policy exclusions to ensure you are fully protected.

Healthcare and Health Insurance in Turkey

Cost of living in Istanbul chart

Prices are listed in Turkish Lira (TRY) and may vary depending on the product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for Istanbul in November 2025.