Living Expenses in Turkiye
Monthly Living Costs Overview
Living costs in Turkey vary depending on your lifestyle and the city you choose. On average, here’s what you can expect:
- Low-budget lifestyle: $400–$600 per month
- Moderate lifestyle: $600–$1,000 per month
- High-budget lifestyle: $1,000+ per month
These costs include accommodation, food, transportation, utilities, and leisure.
Accommodation
Accommodation costs differ based on the type of housing and location. Here’s a breakdown: Student dormitories: $50–$150 per month (cheapest option for students). Shared apartments: $150–$400 per month. Private apartments: $300–$800 per month (depends on size and location). Cities like Istanbul and Izmir tend to have higher rents, especially in central areas. Smaller cities such as Konya or Kayseri offer more affordable housing options.
Food and Groceries
Food expenses in Turkey are reasonable. Cooking at home is the most cost-effective choice, while eating out is also affordable:
- Monthly grocery costs: $100–$200.
- Eating out:
- Budget meal: $3–$7 (a simple meal like döner or lahmacun).
- Mid-range restaurant: $10–$20 per person.
Local markets are a great place to buy fresh produce at low prices, especially in smaller cities.
Transportation
Turkey has a reliable and affordable public transportation system. Costs include:
- Monthly transportation pass: $20–$40 (students receive discounts).
- Taxi fares: Around $0.50 per km.
- Intercity travel:
- Bus tickets: $10–$20 (short trips).
- Domestic flights: $30–$100.
Many cities offer student discounts on public transport/.
Utilities
Utilities include electricity, water, heating, and internet:
- Monthly utility costs: $50–$100, depending on the season and usage.
- Internet: $10–$20 per month for a basic package.
Heating costs may increase during the winter, especially in cities like Ankara.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory for international residents. :
- Students: $20–$50 per month (basic insurance through universities).
- Expats: Private insurance ranges from $30–$100 per month, depending on coverage.
Turkey has a good healthcare system.
