Cost Comparison 2025

IstanbulvsSão Paulo

Turkey

•

Brazil

Overall

💰

0.0%

Istanbul is 0.0%same cost

Rent

🏠

+7.1%

Housing is 7.1% higher

Dining

🍽️

-11.1%

Restaurants 11.1% cheaper

Groceries

🛒

+7.1%

Food shopping 7.1% more

Comparing the cost of living between Istanbul, Turkey and São Paulo, Brazil reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Istanbul is similarly priced than São Paulo. 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 São Paulo by 7%. A one-bedroom apartment in Istanbul's city center costs around TRY 25,000, while the same in São Paulo is approximately R$2,800.

Dining out in Istanbul is notably more expensive compared to São Paulo. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs TRY 150 in Istanbul versus R$30 in São Paulo.

Public transportation in Istanbul is more expensive, with monthly passes at TRY 1,100 compared to R$230 in São Paulo.

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 São Paulo, the same lifestyle would cost around R$1,250. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about TRY 24,710 monthly in Istanbul versus R$4,375 in São Paulo. 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

São Paulo, Brazil

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center

TRY 25,000

R$2,800

1BR Outside Center

TRY 15,000

R$1,800

3BR City Center

TRY 50,000

R$5,500

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant

TRY 150

R$30

Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant

TRY 700

R$150

Cappuccino

TRY 80

R$8

Domestic Beer (0.5L)

TRY 100

R$10

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)

TRY 35

R$5

Bread (500g)

TRY 10

R$7

Eggs (12)

TRY 50

R$10

Cheese (1kg)

TRY 200

R$40

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket

TRY 18

R$4

Monthly Pass

TRY 1,100

R$230

Taxi Start

TRY 30

R$5

Gasoline (1L)

TRY 40

R$6

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)

TRY 2,000

R$300

Internet (60 Mbps)

TRY 300

R$100

Mobile Minute

TRY 2

R$1

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from São Paulo 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 São Paulo 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

São Paulo

Cost of Living Index48

Rent Index30

Purchasing Power Index35

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Istanbul more expensive than São Paulo?

The cost of living in Istanbul and São Paulo 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 São Paulo?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 100% of your São Paulo salary when living in Istanbul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in São Paulo, you'd need about $50,000 in Istanbul for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Istanbul and São Paulo?

The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 13%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable 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, São Paulo provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Istanbul if you prioritize earning potential, or São Paulo for affordability.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Istanbul vs São Paulo?

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 São Paulo, these figures are R$3,050 for singles and R$7,875 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Istanbul and São Paulo 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.