IstanbulvsLagos
Overall
💰-16.7%
Istanbul is 16.7%cheaper
Rent
🏠+7.1%
Housing is 7.1% higher
Dining
🍽️-22.2%
Restaurants 22.2% cheaper
Groceries
🛒+7.1%
Food shopping 7.1% more
Comparing the cost of living between Istanbul, Turkey and Lagos, Nigeria reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Istanbul is more affordable than Lagos by approximately 16.7%. 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 Lagos by 7%. A one-bedroom apartment in Istanbul's city center costs around TRY 25,000, while the same in Lagos is approximately NGN 800,000.
Dining out in Istanbul is notably more expensive compared to Lagos. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs TRY 150 in Istanbul versus NGN 3,000 in Lagos.
Public transportation in Istanbul is more affordable, with monthly passes at TRY 1,100 compared to NGN 20,000 in Lagos.
Purchasing power in Istanbul is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Lagos.
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 Lagos, the same lifestyle would cost around NGN 174,600. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about TRY 24,710 monthly in Istanbul versus NGN 611,100 in Lagos. 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 Lagos 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 Lagos 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
Lagos
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Istanbul more expensive than Lagos?
No, Istanbul is approximately 16.7% cheaper than Lagos. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Istanbul compared to Lagos?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 86% of your Lagos salary when living in Istanbul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Lagos, you'd need about $42,857 in Istanbul for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Istanbul and Lagos?
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 Lagos for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Istanbul vs Lagos?
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 Lagos, these figures are NGN 574,600 for singles and NGN 1,611,100 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Istanbul and Lagos 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 Lagos to maintain your lifestyle from Istanbul
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