Turkey may surprise expats with its relatively reasonable prices. The cost of living in the country varies by region. Large urban centers and business centers are the most expensive. However, Istanbul, although recognized as Turkey's most expensive city, is significantly cheaper than London or New York.
By choosing to live in Turkey, you can actually save some money, as the country has a warm climate and always has fresh produce. A family of two in Turkey should budget 10,000–15,000 lira (€500–€750) per month.
Rent and utilities
Your largest expense will be rent. If you plan to rent on the Aegean or Mediterranean coast, you should expect to pay between 4,000 and 6,000 Turkish lira per month (€200-€330) for a two-bedroom apartment.
In Istanbul, a one-bedroom apartment in the outskirts starts at 3,500 lira (€180). The closer to the center, the higher the prices. An apartment in the heart of Istanbul can cost up to 100,000 lira (€5,200) per month.
Monthly utilities include electricity, water, gas, telephone, internet and television, with an average cost of 1250 lira (65€).
Compared to other countries, they are quite cheap, 265 lira (14€) and 50 lira (2€) per month, respectively.
The cost of food in Turkey
Grocery items in Turkey are generally fresh and affordable. They can be purchased at local supermarkets or markets. The monthly food budget for a family of two is 2,800 lira (€145).
Lamb and veal are expensive in Turkey, ranging from 120 to 150 lira per kilogram (€6-€8), with chicken being the most popular at 70 lira (€3.50) per kilogram. Vegetables and fruits range from 10 to 20 lira (€0.50-€1) per kilogram.
Fare
Turkey's public transportation system includes trams, buses, the metro, and ferries. A monthly pass in Istanbul costs 602 lira (€31).
Many Turks prefer cars. However, their driving style has some peculiarities. Drivers tend to be very restless, so young car owners may have a difficult time in Turkey.
The cost of 1 liter of fuel is 22 lira (1.1€). Maintenance and insurance are 1250 lira (65€) per month.
Good news for Russian drivers is that they no longer need to exchange their Ukrainian driver's license in Turkey.
Entertainment in Turkey
Lunch at a budget restaurant or fast food establishment costs approximately 40 lira per person (2€). In the evening, a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs 300 lira (15€).
Tea, coffee and dessert in a cafe three times a week – 350 lira (18€).
Turkey has very high taxes on alcohol, a glass of beer will cost you 70 lira (about 4€), a bottle of wine – 150 lira (8€).
Fitness gym membership 380 lira (20€) per month.
Cinema ticket – 58 lira (3€).
Medical services
Medical care in Turkey is of high quality, doctors work according to European standards.
Insurance is essential. The monthly fee at the state insurance agency is 580 lira (€30). A doctor's consultation costs 150 lira (€8).