In recent times, Turkey has experienced some economic fluctuations that have impacted the cost of living. This has particularly affected expats, digital nomads, and retirees who were initially attracted by the country’s lower costs. Let’s look at the updated numbers to give you a clearer picture of what to expect if you’re considering a move to Turkey.

1. Housing: Where Your Heart (and Wallet) Is Istanbul:

• Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in city center: Approximately 20,000-35,000 Turkish Lira (TRY) or $740-$1,296 USD per month
• Rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside city center: About 12,000-20,000 TRY or $444-$740 USD per month

2. Food: The Delight of Turkish Cuisine

• Basic groceries (milk, bread, eggs, fruits, etc.): About 2,000-4,000 TRY or $74-$148 USD per week
• Eating out at a mid-range restaurant: 1,000-2,000 TRY or $37-$74 USD for a three-course meal for two
• Street food (kebab, simit, etc.): 100-300 TRY or $3.7-$11 USD

3. Transportation: From A to B

• Monthly public transportation pass: Around 2,200 TRY or $81 USD
• Taxi starting tariff: 50 TRY or $1.85 USD
• Gasoline: Roughly 70 TRY or $2.59 USD per liter

4. Utilities: Keeping the Lights On

• Monthly utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water): Approximately 3,500-6,000 TRY or $129-$222 USD
• Internet: About 1,000-1,500 TRY or $37-$56 USD per month

5. Health Care: Staying Fit and Well

• General doctor visit: 1,500-2,500 TRY or $56-$93 USD
• Monthly health insurance premium: 3,000-5,000 TRY or $111-$185 USD
• Government Hospitals are free

6. Leisure and Lifestyle

• Gym membership: Around 600-1200 TRY or $27-$54 USD per month
• Movie ticket: 250-400 TRY or $9-$15 USD
• Cappuccino in a cafe: 60-200 TRY or $2.2-$7.4 USD

7. Education: For Those With Kids

• Public schools: Generally free but expect some nominal fees for supplies, around 2,000-4,000 TRY or $74-$148 USD annually
• International schools: These can range widely from 30,000 to 120,000 TRY or $1,111 to $4,444 USD per month

Given the economic changes, living in Turkey has become more expensive, yet the country continues to offer diverse experiences for various budgets. Your monthly expenses could range from as low as 30,000 TRY ($1,111 USD) if you’re frugal and living in a smaller city, to upwards of 100,000 TRY ($3,703 USD) if you’re enjoying a more luxurious lifestyle in Istanbul.

So, there you have it. The revised cost of living in Turkey, number by number. It’s still a land where the East meets the West, but your budget may need some adjustment to find a comfortable home here.

BONUS

Advised website for cost comparison of different cities, please visit the link 

https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/compare_countries.jsp

Note: All currency conversions are approximate and should be verified for the most current rates, based on an exchange rate of 27 TRY to 1 USD.

Considering the new economic landscape, are you still keen on making Turkey your next home? Feel free to reach out with any questions! 🇹🇷💸