Mexico CityvsIstanbul
Overall
💰+6.7%
Mexico City is 6.7%more expensive
Rent
🏠-20.0%
Housing is 20.0% lower
Dining
🍽️+12.5%
Restaurants 12.5% pricier
Groceries
🛒+5.0%
Food shopping 5.0% more
Comparing the cost of living between Mexico City, Mexico and Istanbul, Turkey reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Mexico City is more expensive than Istanbul by approximately 6.7%. 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 Mexico City are higher than in Istanbul by 25%. A one-bedroom apartment in Mexico City's city center costs around MX$15,000, while the same in Istanbul is approximately TRY 25,000.
Dining out in Mexico City offers significant savings compared to Istanbul. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs MX$100 in Mexico City versus TRY 150 in Istanbul.
Public transportation in Mexico City is more affordable, with monthly passes at MX$500 compared to TRY 1,100 in Istanbul.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Mexico City can expect to spend approximately MX$5,050 per month (excluding rent), while in Istanbul, the same lifestyle would cost around TRY 7,060. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about MX$17,675 monthly in Mexico City versus TRY 24,710 in Istanbul. 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 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
Mexico City
Istanbul
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mexico City more expensive than Istanbul?
Yes, Mexico City is approximately 6.7% more expensive than Istanbul overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Mexico City compared to Istanbul?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Istanbul salary when living in Mexico City. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Istanbul, you'd need about $53,333 in Mexico City for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Mexico City and Istanbul?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 25%, 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 Mexico City if you prioritize earning potential, or Istanbul for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Mexico City vs Istanbul?
In Mexico City, a single person needs approximately MX$13,050 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about MX$35,675. In Istanbul, these figures are TRY 22,060 for singles and TRY 54,710 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Mexico City and Istanbul 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 Istanbul to maintain your lifestyle from Mexico City
Calculate Salary Equivalence