Is Istanbul more expensive than Ankara?

Istanbul is 10.4% more expensive than Ankara overall. Rent is 44.2% higher, groceries 5.9% more expensive, and restaurants 8.0% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Ankara or Istanbul?

Ankara has a purchasing power index of 70.8 while Istanbul has 65.5 (NYC = 100). Ankara offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇹🇷 Ankara vs 🇹🇷 Istanbul

2026

Istanbul is 10.4% more expensive

Category	🇹🇷 Ankara	🇹🇷 Istanbul	Difference
Cost of Living	42.5	46.9	+10.4%
Rent	15.4	22.2	+44.2%
Groceries	43.9	46.5	+5.9%
Restaurants	43.7	47.2	+8.0%
Purchasing Power	70.8	65.5	-7.5%

Data verified Q1 2026 · Source: Numbeo cost-of-living indices (NYC = 100 baseline) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

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🇹🇷 Cost of Living in Ankara

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🇹🇷 Cost of Living in Istanbul

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🇹🇷 Should I Move to Ankara?

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