IstanbulvsManila
Overall
💰0.0%
Istanbul is 0.0%same cost
Rent
🏠0.0%
Housing is 0.0% same
Dining
🍽️-15.6%
Restaurants 15.6% cheaper
Groceries
🛒+23.8%
Food shopping 23.8% more
Comparing the cost of living between Istanbul, Turkey and Manila, Philippines reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Istanbul is similarly priced than Manila. 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 similar than in Manila. A one-bedroom apartment in Istanbul's city center costs around TRY 25,000, while the same in Manila is approximately ₱35,000.
Dining out in Istanbul is notably more expensive compared to Manila. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs TRY 150 in Istanbul versus ₱200 in Manila.
Public transportation in Istanbul is more expensive, with monthly passes at TRY 1,100 compared to ₱1,000 in Manila.
Grocery shopping in Istanbul is more affordable by approximately 19%. 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 Manila, the same lifestyle would cost around ₱14,510. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about TRY 24,710 monthly in Istanbul versus ₱50,785 in Manila. 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 Manila 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 Manila 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
Manila
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Istanbul more expensive than Manila?
The cost of living in Istanbul and Manila is relatively similar, with only minor differences in specific categories. Your actual expenses will depend on your lifestyle choices.
How much salary do I need in Istanbul compared to Manila?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 100% of your Manila salary when living in Istanbul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Manila, you'd need about $50,000 in Istanbul for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Istanbul and Manila?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 19%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show smaller 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, Manila provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Istanbul if you prioritize earning potential, or Manila for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Istanbul vs Manila?
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 Manila, these figures are ₱34,510 for singles and ₱95,785 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Istanbul and Manila 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.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Manila to maintain your lifestyle from Istanbul
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