Is Istanbul more expensive than Seoul?

Istanbul is 0.6% more expensive than Seoul overall. Rent is 7.9% lower, groceries 47.3% cheaper, and restaurants 6.2% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Seoul or Istanbul?

Seoul has a purchasing power index of 137.9 while Istanbul has 65.8 (NYC = 100). Seoul offers better purchasing power.

Seoul vs Istanbul: Istanbul is 0.6% more expensive, rent 8% lower (2026)

Category	🇰🇷 Seoul	🇹🇷 Istanbul	Difference
Cost of Living	32.7	32.9	+0.6%
Rent	23.9	22.0	-7.9%
Groceries	83.8	44.2	-47.3%
Restaurants	49.8	52.9	+6.2%
Purchasing Power	137.9	65.8	-52.3%

Data from October 2026 · Cost of living: Numbeo, blended with Expatistan and LivingCost where available. Rent, groceries, restaurants and purchasing power: Numbeo (NYC = 100) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

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🇰🇷 Cost of Living in Seoul

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🇹🇷 Cost of Living in Istanbul

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🇰🇷 Should I Move to Seoul?

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