IstanbulvsCairo
Overall
💰-27.1%
Istanbul is 27.1%cheaper
Rent
🏠-46.4%
Housing is 46.4% lower
Dining
🍽️-33.3%
Restaurants 33.3% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-23.8%
Food shopping 23.8% less
Comparing the cost of living between Istanbul, Turkey and Cairo, Egypt reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Istanbul is more affordable than Cairo by approximately 27.1%. 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 Istanbul are higher than in Cairo by 87%. A one-bedroom apartment in Istanbul's city center costs around TRY 25,000, while the same in Cairo is approximately EGP 10,000.
Dining out in Istanbul is notably more expensive compared to Cairo. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs TRY 150 in Istanbul versus EGP 150 in Cairo.
Public transportation in Istanbul is more expensive, with monthly passes at TRY 1,100 compared to EGP 200 in Cairo.
Purchasing power in Istanbul is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Cairo.
Grocery shopping in Istanbul is more expensive by approximately 31%. 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 Istanbul can expect to spend approximately TRY 7,060 per month (excluding rent), while in Cairo, the same lifestyle would cost around EGP 4,980. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about TRY 24,710 monthly in Istanbul versus EGP 17,430 in Cairo. 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 Cairo 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 Cairo 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
Istanbul
Cairo
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Istanbul more expensive than Cairo?
No, Istanbul is approximately 27.1% cheaper than Cairo. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Istanbul compared to Cairo?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 79% of your Cairo salary when living in Istanbul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Cairo, you'd need about $39,344 in Istanbul for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Istanbul and Cairo?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 87%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. 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 Istanbul if you prioritize earning potential, or Cairo for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Istanbul vs Cairo?
In Istanbul, a single person needs approximately TRY 22,060 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about TRY 54,710. In Cairo, these figures are EGP 10,980 for singles and EGP 29,430 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Istanbul and Cairo in 2025 shows significant 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 Cairo to maintain your lifestyle from Istanbul
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