Cost Comparison 2025

IstanbulvsPortland

Turkey

•

United States

Overall

💰

+70.8%

Istanbul is 70.8%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+107.1%

Housing is 107.1% higher

Dining

🍽️

+77.8%

Restaurants 77.8% pricier

Groceries

🛒

+102.4%

Food shopping 102.4% more

Comparing the cost of living between Istanbul, Turkey and Portland, United States reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Istanbul is more expensive than Portland by approximately 70.8%. 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 Portland by 52%. A one-bedroom apartment in Istanbul's city center costs around TRY 25,000, while the same in Portland is approximately $1,800.

Dining out in Istanbul offers significant savings compared to Portland. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs TRY 150 in Istanbul versus $18 in Portland.

Public transportation in Istanbul is more expensive, with monthly passes at TRY 1,100 compared to $100 in Portland.

Purchasing power in Portland is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Istanbul.

Grocery shopping in Istanbul is more affordable by approximately 51%. 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 Portland, the same lifestyle would cost around $608. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about TRY 24,710 monthly in Istanbul versus $2,129 in Portland. 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

Portland, United States

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center

TRY 25,000

$1,800

1BR Outside Center

TRY 15,000

$1,400

3BR City Center

TRY 50,000

$3,200

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant

TRY 150

$18

Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant

TRY 700

$85

Cappuccino

TRY 80

Domestic Beer (0.5L)

TRY 100

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)

TRY 35

Bread (500g)

TRY 10

Eggs (12)

TRY 50

Cheese (1kg)

TRY 200

$12

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket

TRY 18

Monthly Pass

TRY 1,100

$100

Taxi Start

TRY 30

Gasoline (1L)

TRY 40

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)

TRY 2,000

$125

Internet (60 Mbps)

TRY 300

$65

Mobile Minute

TRY 2

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Istanbul to Portland, 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 Portland 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

Cost of Living Index48

Rent Index28

Purchasing Power Index40

Portland

Cost of Living Index82

Rent Index58

Purchasing Power Index90

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Istanbul more expensive than Portland?

Yes, Istanbul is approximately 70.8% more expensive than Portland overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

How much salary do I need in Istanbul compared to Portland?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.7x of your Portland salary when living in Istanbul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Portland, you'd need about $85,417 in Istanbul for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Istanbul and Portland?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 52%, 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?

Portland offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Portland provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Istanbul if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Portland for better value.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Istanbul vs Portland?

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 Portland, these figures are $2,008 for singles and $4,529 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Istanbul and Portland in 2025 shows significant 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.