IstanbulvsJakarta
Overall
💰-6.3%
Istanbul is 6.3%cheaper
Rent
🏠-10.7%
Housing is 10.7% lower
Dining
🍽️-22.2%
Restaurants 22.2% cheaper
Groceries
🛒+19.0%
Food shopping 19.0% more
Comparing the cost of living between Istanbul, Turkey and Jakarta, Indonesia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Istanbul is more affordable than Jakarta by approximately 6.3%. 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 higher than in Jakarta by 12%. A one-bedroom apartment in Istanbul's city center costs around TRY 25,000, while the same in Jakarta is approximately IDR 8,000,000.
Dining out in Istanbul is notably more expensive compared to Jakarta. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs TRY 150 in Istanbul versus IDR 35,000 in Jakarta.
Public transportation in Istanbul is more affordable, with monthly passes at TRY 1,100 compared to IDR 150,000 in Jakarta.
Grocery shopping in Istanbul is more affordable by approximately 16%. 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 Jakarta, the same lifestyle would cost around IDR 3,350,000. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about TRY 24,710 monthly in Istanbul versus IDR 11,725,000 in Jakarta. 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 Jakarta 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 Jakarta 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
Jakarta
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Istanbul more expensive than Jakarta?
No, Istanbul is approximately 6.3% cheaper than Jakarta. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Istanbul compared to Jakarta?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 94% of your Jakarta salary when living in Istanbul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Jakarta, you'd need about $47,059 in Istanbul for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Istanbul and Jakarta?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 29%, 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 Istanbul if you prioritize earning potential, or Jakarta for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Istanbul vs Jakarta?
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 Jakarta, these figures are IDR 7,850,000 for singles and IDR 21,725,000 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Istanbul and Jakarta in 2025 shows moderate 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 Jakarta to maintain your lifestyle from Istanbul
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