AthensvsIstanbul
Overall
💰-12.7%
Athens is 12.7%cheaper
Rent
🏠+12.0%
Housing is 12.0% higher
Dining
🍽️-10.0%
Restaurants 10.0% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-16.0%
Food shopping 16.0% less
Comparing the cost of living between Athens, Greece and Istanbul, Turkey reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Athens is more affordable than Istanbul by approximately 12.7%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Athens are lower than in Istanbul by 11%. A one-bedroom apartment in Athens's city center costs around €650, while the same in Istanbul is approximately TRY 25,000.
Dining out in Athens is notably more expensive compared to Istanbul. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs €12 in Athens versus TRY 150 in Istanbul.
Public transportation in Athens is more affordable, with monthly passes at €30 compared to TRY 1,100 in Istanbul.
Grocery shopping in Athens is more expensive by approximately 19%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Athens can expect to spend approximately €428 per month (excluding rent), while in Istanbul, the same lifestyle would cost around TRY 7,060. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about €1,499 monthly in Athens versus TRY 24,710 in Istanbul. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Istanbul to Athens, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Athens to Istanbul requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Athens
Istanbul
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Athens more expensive than Istanbul?
No, Athens is approximately 12.7% cheaper than Istanbul. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Athens compared to Istanbul?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 89% of your Istanbul salary when living in Athens. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Istanbul, you'd need about $44,355 in Athens for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Athens and Istanbul?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 19%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Athens offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Athens provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Athens if you prioritize earning potential, or Istanbul for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Athens vs Istanbul?
In Athens, a single person needs approximately €878 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about €2,349. In Istanbul, these figures are TRY 22,060 for singles and TRY 54,710 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Athens and Istanbul in 2025 shows notable differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Istanbul to maintain your lifestyle from Athens
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