IstanbulvsEdinburgh
Overall
💰+56.3%
Istanbul is 56.3%more expensive
Rent
🏠+60.7%
Housing is 60.7% higher
Dining
🍽️+66.7%
Restaurants 66.7% pricier
Groceries
🛒+66.7%
Food shopping 66.7% more
Comparing the cost of living between Istanbul, Turkey and Edinburgh, United Kingdom reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Istanbul is more expensive than Edinburgh by approximately 56.3%. 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 Edinburgh by 38%. A one-bedroom apartment in Istanbul's city center costs around TRY 25,000, while the same in Edinburgh is approximately £1,200.
Dining out in Istanbul offers significant savings compared to Edinburgh. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs TRY 150 in Istanbul versus £15 in Edinburgh.
Public transportation in Istanbul is more expensive, with monthly passes at TRY 1,100 compared to £60 in Edinburgh.
Purchasing power in Edinburgh 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 40%. 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 Edinburgh, the same lifestyle would cost around £518. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about TRY 24,710 monthly in Istanbul versus £1,813 in Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh, 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 Edinburgh 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
Edinburgh
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Istanbul more expensive than Edinburgh?
Yes, Istanbul is approximately 56.3% more expensive than Edinburgh overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Istanbul compared to Edinburgh?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.6x of your Edinburgh salary when living in Istanbul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Edinburgh, you'd need about $78,125 in Istanbul for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Istanbul and Edinburgh?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 40%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Edinburgh offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Edinburgh provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Istanbul if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Edinburgh for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Istanbul vs Edinburgh?
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 Edinburgh, these figures are £1,418 for singles and £3,413 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Istanbul and Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh to maintain your lifestyle from Istanbul
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