Cost Comparison 2025

IstanbulvsChicago

Turkey

•

United States

Overall

💰

+70.8%

Istanbul is 70.8%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+132.1%

Housing is 132.1% higher

Dining

🍽️

+77.8%

Restaurants 77.8% pricier

Groceries

🛒

+90.5%

Food shopping 90.5% more

Comparing the cost of living between Istanbul, Turkey and Chicago, United States reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Istanbul is more expensive than Chicago by approximately 70.8%. 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 lower than in Chicago by 57%. A one-bedroom apartment in Istanbul's city center costs around TRY 25,000, while the same in Chicago is approximately $2,200.

Dining out in Istanbul offers significant savings compared to Chicago. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs TRY 150 in Istanbul versus $18 in Chicago.

Public transportation in Istanbul is more expensive, with monthly passes at TRY 1,100 compared to $105 in Chicago.

Purchasing power in Chicago is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Istanbul.

Grocery shopping in Istanbul is more affordable by approximately 48%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower 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 Chicago, the same lifestyle would cost around $638. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about TRY 24,710 monthly in Istanbul versus $2,232 in Chicago. 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

Item

Istanbul, Turkey

Chicago, United States

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center

TRY 25,000

$2,200

1BR Outside Center

TRY 15,000

$1,600

3BR City Center

TRY 50,000

$4,000

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant

TRY 150

$18

Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant

TRY 700

$90

Cappuccino

TRY 80

Domestic Beer (0.5L)

TRY 100

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)

TRY 35

Bread (500g)

TRY 10

Eggs (12)

TRY 50

Cheese (1kg)

TRY 200

$12

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket

TRY 18

Monthly Pass

TRY 1,100

$105

Taxi Start

TRY 30

Gasoline (1L)

TRY 40

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)

TRY 2,000

$140

Internet (60 Mbps)

TRY 300

$60

Mobile Minute

TRY 2

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Istanbul to Chicago, 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 Chicago 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

Istanbul

Cost of Living Index48

Rent Index28

Purchasing Power Index40

Chicago

Cost of Living Index82

Rent Index65

Purchasing Power Index110

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Istanbul more expensive than Chicago?

Yes, Istanbul is approximately 70.8% more expensive than Chicago overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

How much salary do I need in Istanbul compared to Chicago?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.7x of your Chicago salary when living in Istanbul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Chicago, you'd need about $85,417 in Istanbul for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Istanbul and Chicago?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 57%, 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?

Chicago offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Chicago provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Istanbul if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Chicago for better value.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Istanbul vs Chicago?

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 Chicago, these figures are $2,238 for singles and $5,032 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Istanbul and Chicago 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.