IstanbulvsRiyadh
Overall
💰+14.6%
Istanbul is 14.6%more expensive
Rent
🏠+25.0%
Housing is 25.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+11.1%
Restaurants 11.1% pricier
Groceries
🛒+23.8%
Food shopping 23.8% more
Comparing the cost of living between Istanbul, Turkey and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Istanbul is more expensive than Riyadh by approximately 14.6%. 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 Riyadh by 20%. A one-bedroom apartment in Istanbul's city center costs around TRY 25,000, while the same in Riyadh is approximately SAR 3,000.
Dining out in Istanbul costs about the same compared to Riyadh. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs TRY 150 in Istanbul versus SAR 25 in Riyadh.
Public transportation in Istanbul is more expensive, with monthly passes at TRY 1,100 compared to SAR 140 in Riyadh.
Purchasing power in Riyadh 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 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 Riyadh, the same lifestyle would cost around SAR 1,307. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about TRY 24,710 monthly in Istanbul versus SAR 4,575 in Riyadh. 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 Riyadh, 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 Riyadh 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
Riyadh
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Istanbul more expensive than Riyadh?
Yes, Istanbul is approximately 14.6% more expensive than Riyadh overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Istanbul compared to Riyadh?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Riyadh salary when living in Istanbul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Riyadh, you'd need about $57,292 in Istanbul for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Istanbul and Riyadh?
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?
Riyadh offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Riyadh provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Istanbul if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Riyadh for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Istanbul vs Riyadh?
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 Riyadh, these figures are SAR 3,307 for singles and SAR 8,575 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Istanbul and Riyadh 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 Riyadh to maintain your lifestyle from Istanbul
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