Buenos AiresvsIstanbul
Overall
💰+20.0%
Buenos Aires is 20.0%more expensive
Rent
🏠+12.0%
Housing is 12.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+28.6%
Restaurants 28.6% pricier
Groceries
🛒+10.5%
Food shopping 10.5% more
Comparing the cost of living between Buenos Aires, Argentina and Istanbul, Turkey reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Buenos Aires is more expensive than Istanbul by approximately 20.0%. 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 Buenos Aires are lower than in Istanbul by 11%. A one-bedroom apartment in Buenos Aires's city center costs around ARS 400,000, while the same in Istanbul is approximately TRY 25,000.
Dining out in Buenos Aires offers significant savings compared to Istanbul. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ARS 4,000 in Buenos Aires versus TRY 150 in Istanbul.
Public transportation in Buenos Aires is more expensive, with monthly passes at ARS 2,500 compared to TRY 1,100 in Istanbul.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Buenos Aires can expect to spend approximately ARS 101,900 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 ARS 356,650 monthly in Buenos Aires 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 Buenos Aires to Istanbul, 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 Istanbul to Buenos Aires 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
Buenos Aires
Istanbul
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Buenos Aires more expensive than Istanbul?
Yes, Buenos Aires is approximately 20.0% more expensive than Istanbul overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Buenos Aires compared to Istanbul?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Istanbul salary when living in Buenos Aires. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Istanbul, you'd need about $60,000 in Buenos Aires for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Buenos Aires and Istanbul?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 22%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Istanbul offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Istanbul provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Buenos Aires if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Istanbul for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Buenos Aires vs Istanbul?
In Buenos Aires, a single person needs approximately ARS 401,900 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ARS 956,650. 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 Buenos Aires 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 Buenos Aires
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