For those who plan to move or are simply curious, we’ve compared the cost of living in Istanbul and Berlin in 2025. Rent, food, transportation – we’ve covered them all, so you know what to expect when coming from one city to another.
Average expenses in Berlin vs Istanbul
For this article, we’ve gathered data about the living costs in Europe and Turkey from Numbeo. The numbers are accurate as of the date of publication and may change over time.
On average, the living costs in Turkey and Germany* are:
*Excluding rent
| City | Single person, EUR | Family of four, EUR |
|---|---|---|
| Istanbul | 616.0 | 2,297.6 |
| Berlin | 993.9 | 3,410.7 |
The cost of living in Berlin in 2025 is higher – this trend has persisted over the last few years and is likely to continue in the near future.
You can rely on the numbers we share when planning your budget. However, the total depends on your income and how wise you are with your money. Treat this article as a benchmark, not the only possible answer.
Accommodation in Berlin vs Istanbul
We know you’ve waited for this…Let’s see the rent prices in Berlin and Istanbul in 2025.
| Rent prices in Berlin, EUR | Rent prices in Istanbul, EUR | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 bedroom, city centre | 1,222.03 | 836.22 |
| 1 bedroom, outside of the city centre | 880.84 | 538.61 |
| 3 bedrooms, city centre | 2,343.90 | 1,445.13 |
| 3 bedrooms, outside of the city centre | 1,694.47 | 919.62 |
Not surprisingly, rent prices in Istanbul are way more affordable. If you’re used to them, renting a place in Germany can be very, very financially stressful. One common way to ease the burden is by sharing a flat with someone else; this practice is called Wohngemeinschaft (WG).
Cutting the costs of money transfers is as important for expats. You can send money to Turkey beneficially with Profee – the service with hot rates and little to no fees.
Utility bills in Berlin vs Istanbul
In rare cases, utilities are included in rent, but most landlords prefer them to be paid separately.
| Berlin | Istanbul | |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities for 85 m2 apartment, EUR | 322.04 | 60.37 |
| Mobile phone plan, 10 GB data, EUR | 15.57 | 9.44 |
| Unlimited broadband internet, EUR | 43.92 | 12.21 |
Utility bills in Berlin are 5 times more expensive than in Istanbul! Now you see why the average living costs in Europe are so much higher. Luckily, water, gas and heat usage are under your control – read our tips on how to spend less:
Grocery shopping in Berlin vs Istanbul
If you usually buy a full cart in Turkey, you may need to limit yourself in Germany, as most products there are twice as expensive.
| Food prices in Berlin, EUR | Food prices in Istanbul, EUR | |
|---|---|---|
| Milk, 1l | 1.16 | 0.91 |
| White rice, 1kg | 2.76 | 1.86 |
| Eggs, 12 | 3.41 | 2.16 |
| Oranges, 1kg | 2.63 | 1.33 |
| Chicken fillets | 10.51 | 5.31 |
To enjoy more reasonable prices in Germany, try discount stores like Lidl or Aldi, as well as local markets that offer fresh food.
Transportation in Berlin vs Istanbul
Lastly, compare how much a person spends on public transportation in both cities.
| Berlin | Istanbul | |
|---|---|---|
| Single ticket standard fare, EUR | Starting from 3.80 | Starting from 0.58 |
| Monthly ticket standard fare, EUR | Starting from 106.50 | Starting from 43.07 |
The difference between the living costs in Turkey and Germany is crystal clear. So, if you’re moving to Europe soon, make sure you’ve saved up enough funds to settle down comfortably after arrival.
FAQ – the cost of living in Istanbul and Berlin
Is 1,000 EUR enough for a month in Berlin?
No, 1,000 EUR is too little if you rent an apartment, given the cost of living in Berlin in 2025. If you own a flat, it’ll be enough to cover the basic needs.
Is Istanbul expensive for living?
It’s one of the most pricey places in Turkey, but it is more affordable than many European cities.
What salary do I need to live in Berlin?
At least 1,500-2,000 EUR per month.
How much money do I need to live comfortably in Turkey?
Around 1,100-1,500 EUR if renting a flat.
Can I move to Berlin without a job?
It’s possible (as a student, for example), but you need a fat wallet for that. Don’t go empty-handed.
