Cost Comparison 2025

IstanbulvsMexico City

Turkey

•

Mexico

Overall

💰

-6.3%

Istanbul is 6.3%cheaper

Rent

🏠

+25.0%

Housing is 25.0% higher

Dining

🍽️

-11.1%

Restaurants 11.1% cheaper

Groceries

🛒

-4.8%

Food shopping 4.8% less

Comparing the cost of living between Istanbul, Turkey and Mexico City, Mexico reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Istanbul is more affordable than Mexico City 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 lower than in Mexico City by 20%. A one-bedroom apartment in Istanbul's city center costs around TRY 25,000, while the same in Mexico City is approximately MX$15,000.

Dining out in Istanbul is notably more expensive compared to Mexico City. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs TRY 150 in Istanbul versus MX$100 in Mexico City.

Public transportation in Istanbul is more expensive, with monthly passes at TRY 1,100 compared to MX$500 in Mexico City.

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 Mexico City, the same lifestyle would cost around MX$5,050. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about TRY 24,710 monthly in Istanbul versus MX$17,675 in Mexico City. 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

Mexico City, Mexico

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center

TRY 25,000

MX$15,000

1BR Outside Center

TRY 15,000

MX$8,000

3BR City Center

TRY 50,000

MX$30,000

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant

TRY 150

MX$100

Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant

TRY 700

MX$700

Cappuccino

TRY 80

MX$60

Domestic Beer (0.5L)

TRY 100

MX$40

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)

TRY 35

MX$25

Bread (500g)

TRY 10

MX$35

Eggs (12)

TRY 50

MX$35

Cheese (1kg)

TRY 200

MX$120

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket

TRY 18

MX$5

Monthly Pass

TRY 1,100

MX$500

Taxi Start

TRY 30

MX$40

Gasoline (1L)

TRY 40

MX$23

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)

TRY 2,000

MX$1,000

Internet (60 Mbps)

TRY 300

MX$500

Mobile Minute

TRY 2

MX$2

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Mexico City 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 Mexico City 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

Mexico City

Cost of Living Index45

Rent Index35

Purchasing Power Index45

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Istanbul more expensive than Mexico City?

No, Istanbul is approximately 6.3% cheaper than Mexico City. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.

How much salary do I need in Istanbul compared to Mexico City?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 94% of your Mexico City salary when living in Istanbul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Mexico City, you'd need about $47,059 in Istanbul for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Istanbul and Mexico City?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 20%, 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?

Mexico City 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 cultural experiences, or Mexico City for better value.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Istanbul vs Mexico City?

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 Mexico City, these figures are MX$13,050 for singles and MX$35,675 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Istanbul and Mexico City 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.