IstanbulvsMoscow
Overall
💰+4.2%
Istanbul is 4.2%more expensive
Rent
🏠+25.0%
Housing is 25.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+22.2%
Restaurants 22.2% pricier
Groceries
🛒+7.1%
Food shopping 7.1% more
Comparing the cost of living between Istanbul, Turkey and Moscow, Russia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Istanbul is more expensive than Moscow by approximately 4.2%. 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 Moscow by 20%. A one-bedroom apartment in Istanbul's city center costs around TRY 25,000, while the same in Moscow is approximately RUB 80,000.
Dining out in Istanbul offers significant savings compared to Moscow. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs TRY 150 in Istanbul versus RUB 600 in Moscow.
Public transportation in Istanbul is more affordable, with monthly passes at TRY 1,100 compared to RUB 2,700 in Moscow.
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 Moscow, the same lifestyle would cost around RUB 23,560. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about TRY 24,710 monthly in Istanbul versus RUB 82,460 in Moscow. 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 Moscow, 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 Moscow 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
Moscow
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Istanbul more expensive than Moscow?
The cost of living in Istanbul and Moscow 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 Moscow?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.0x of your Moscow salary when living in Istanbul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Moscow, you'd need about $52,083 in Istanbul for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Istanbul and Moscow?
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?
Moscow offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Moscow provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Istanbul if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Moscow for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Istanbul vs Moscow?
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 Moscow, these figures are RUB 68,560 for singles and RUB 167,460 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Istanbul and Moscow 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 Moscow to maintain your lifestyle from Istanbul
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