Every cost of living guide for Istanbul is either out of date, based on tourist assumptions or written by someone who visited for a month. This one is different. These are real numbers from March 2026, based on actual listings and local prices, broken down honestly for three different types of expat lifestyle.
The short version: Istanbul is still very affordable by Western European or North American standards, but it is no longer the bargain it was three years ago. Inflation has been significant. If you are moving here on a foreign salary, you will almost certainly live well. If you are earning locally, the calculation is tighter.
The biggest cost: rent
Rent is where most expats either get it right or get it very wrong. Prices vary enormously by neighborhood and apartment type. Here are realistic mid-range figures for unfurnished apartments as of March 2026, using an exchange rate of 44 TL to the dollar.
| Apartment type | Budget areas | Mid-range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio (1+0) | ₺18,000 | ₺28,000 | ₺40,000 |
| 1 bedroom (1+1) | ₺25,000 | ₺42,000 | ₺60,000 |
| 2 bedroom (2+1) | ₺30,000 | ₺52,000 | ₺75,000 |
Do not forget aidat
Aidat is the monthly building management fee, paid on top of rent. In older buildings it is minimal. In newer managed complexes with a gym, pool or 24-hour security it can add ₺3,000 to ₺10,000 per month to your effective cost. Always ask before agreeing to a price.
Food and daily costs
Food in Istanbul is still very affordable if you shop and eat like a local. The market system means fresh produce is cheap and excellent. Eating out at a local lokanta (canteen-style restaurant) costs ₺150 to ₺300 for a full meal. A mid-range restaurant runs ₺400 to ₺800 per person. International restaurants in Nisantasi or Beyoglu can reach European prices.
Local tip
The Kadıköy market on the Asian side has the best and most affordable produce in the city. If you live on the European side, the Besiktas market on weekends is the equivalent. Buying your fruit, vegetables and cheese from markets rather than supermarkets cuts your food bill significantly.
Transport
Istanbul's public transport system is excellent and very affordable. A single journey on the metro, tram or ferry costs around ₺20 with an Istanbulkart. Most expats spend ₺800 to ₺1,500 per month on transport depending on how much they travel. If you drive, add petrol (expensive by Turkish standards) and parking.
Want a full personalised budget estimate?
The budget planner covers all costs including aidat, health insurance, phone registration and more.
The bottom line
A single expat living comfortably in a mid-range neighborhood, eating out a few times a week and maintaining a normal social life should budget around ₺60,000 to ₺90,000 per month (roughly $1,400 to $2,000 USD at current rates). A more frugal lifestyle in a budget neighborhood is very manageable at ₺40,000 to ₺50,000. Premium living in Nisantasi or Bebek starts at ₺150,000 and up.
The salary calculator on this site lets you enter your actual income and lifestyle choices and tells you exactly where you land.