Cost of living in Turkey
The cost of living in Turkey runs at less than half of US prices, and the short-term permit asks for income of at least 1.5 times the net minimum wage.
Official prices, where your money goes further, and a budget built from your own rent and insurance. Checked against official sources on Oct 8, 2026.
- Price level
- ~45% of the US Household consumption, 2025. World Bank. Checked Oct 7, 2026.
- Tax on a foreign pension
- 0% Foreign pensions are not taxed. Income Tax Law; PwC Tax Summaries. Checked Oct 8, 2026.
Build your Turkey budget
No official source tracks what expats pay in rent, and rent is the biggest line in any budget. So this starts from what is measured and adds your own numbers.
Get rent from current listings in the area you like and a written quote for health insurance at your age.
Your monthly budget
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Cost of living questions
How much do I need a month to live in Turkey?
It depends mostly on rent, which no official source tracks for expats. Add your rent and insurance quotes in the calculator above.
Is Turkey cheaper than the US?
On average, yes: the World Bank puts household prices in Turkey at about 45% of US levels (2025). Imported goods, cars and electronics can cost as much as at home or more.
How much does it cost to retire in Turkey?
Prices in Turkey run at less than half of US prices. For the short-term permit, a single applicant needs income of at least 1.5 times the net minimum wage, which is ₺28,075.50 a month in 2026.
How much income does a couple need to live in Turkey on a residence permit?
Applying together, a family needs income of at least the minimum wage for each member, so a couple needs at least twice the minimum wage.
