Exploring the Cost of Living in the European Part of Turkey
The cost of living in the European part of Turkey can vary greatly, depending on the city, the neighborhood, and your lifestyle. We will explore the typical monthly expenses for various aspects of living in cities like Istanbul, starting with housing, moving on to utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses. These costs can fluctuate based on personal choices, economic conditions, and specific locations.
Housing
The cost of housing significantly impacts your monthly budget. In cities like Istanbul, the European part of Turkey, you can expect to pay different rates based on the location and amenities.
Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment
In the city center, you might find a one-bedroom apartment costing approximately 400 to 800 Turkish Liras (TRY) per month. Outside the city center, the cost could range from 250 to 500 TRY per month.
Utilities and Internet
An average household can expect to spend around 50 to 100 TRY per month on utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage. Additionally, high-speed internet ranges from 20 to 30 TRY per month.
Food
Food expenses can range widely, from 150 to 300 TRY per month depending on your diet. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs approximately 5 to 15 TRY, while a mid-range restaurant might cost around 30 to 60 TRY for a 3-course meal for two people.
Transportation
Transportation expenses can include a public transport monthly pass, which typically ranges from 15 to 30 TRY. A taxi ride might cost an additional 0.50 TRY per kilometer.
Healthcare
Health insurance can cost between 30 and 100 TRY per month, assuming it is applicable.
Miscellaneous Expenses
Entertainment, leisure, and personal expenses can cost anywhere from 100 to 200 TRY per month. This can include activities like restaurants, movies, and other leisure pursuits.
Total Estimated Monthly Cost
Based on the above expenses, the total estimated monthly cost can range from 700 to 1000 TRY at the low end, and from 1200 to 2000 TRY at the high end.
Low-End Estimate
700 - 1000 TRY
High-End Estimate
1200 - 2000 TRY
It is essential to note that these figures can fluctuate based on personal choices, economic conditions, and specific locations within the European part of Turkey. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is always a good idea to check local resources or expat forums.
Living with Friends and Alone
Living with friends can help reduce monthly expenses. For instance, if you live in Kadikoy, a neighborhood on the Asian side of Istanbul, and have two children, you might spend around 6,000 TRY per month. However, if you live alone in a suburban area of the European side of Istanbul, your expenses could be as low as 2,000 TRY per month.
The cost of living in Turkey can be surprisingly high, especially in popular areas like Istanbul, making it challenging for those on a lower salary. If you are planning to move to Turkey from abroad, you might find that your money goes further, and your lifestyle is more comfortable. However, the ease of living can vary greatly depending on where you choose to reside.
Conclusion
The cost of living in the European part of Turkey, particularly in cities like Istanbul, requires careful planning and budgeting. By understanding the typical monthly expenses for housing, utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses, you can better prepare for the lifestyle you want to lead in this vibrant and culturally rich region.