Study in Turkey: Housing & Living Costs
To many international students, the cost of living in Turkey is very much affordable. The Turkish Lira has struggled in recent years, and this has maximized how far the currency can go for people from all over the world, even if you’re studying in a major city. As Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey, and many international students find themselves there, these costs will reflect the cost of living in Istanbul.
To many international students, the cost of living in Turkey is very much affordable. The Turkish Lira has struggled in recent years, and this has maximized how far the currency can go for people from all over the world, even if you’re studying in a major city.
As Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey, and many international students find themselves there, these costs will reflect the cost of living there. Some average costs in Istanbul are:
- Monthly rent (1 bedroom apartment): 1400TRY (US$190)
- Utilities (monthly average): 500TRY (US$65)
- Monthly public transport pass: 275TRY (US$37)
- Meal (inexpensive restaurant): 30TRY (US$4.10)
- Coffee: 15TRY (US$2)
- Milk (1 liter): 6TRY ($0.80)
- Vegetables (1kg): 3TRY (US$0.40)
- Eggs (dozen): 13TRY (US$1.80)
- Water (1.5 liters bottled): 2.30TRY (US$0.30) *
- Beef (1kg): 70TRY (US$9.60)
- Beer (bottle): 15TRY (US$2)
- Bread (loaf): 3.10TRY (US$0.45)
*You’ll need to factor bottled water into your budget as you can’t drink the tap water in Turkey.
The average cost of living in Istanbul without rent is about 12,500TRY (US$1700) per month. Rent is normally counted as a separate cost in Turkey.
Istanbul’s relatively affordable cost of living means that you can enjoy a cosmopolitan lifestyle on a shoestring budget. You can spend your days in cafes, some of which are themed, bars, restaurants and shisha dens without breaking the bank.
Bear in mind, however, that Turkey is still largely cash-driven. Even in major cities, many businesses will only take cash or, at the least, will make it clear that this is their preferred option.
As for healthcare, it’s free in Turkey. Thanks to a series of reforms during the 2000s, Turkish healthcare is rapidly improving, although it still lags behind many other European countries, like Greece and Italy.
That being said, Turkish healthcare is only open to citizens and permanent residents. That’s why you’ll need health insurance when applying for your student visa. Private healthcare is still affordable in Turkey - that’s why it’s also a popular medical tourism destination.
Study in Turkey
Want an overview of Turkey? This section gives you a quick insight into what life is like in Turkey, as well as the country's history and intriguing culture.
Education in Turkey
Want to learn about how the higher education system works in Turkey? Turkey is an evermore popular destination for a variety of students, given its good programs, low fees and its culture and history. Take a minute to find out more about the structure of the education system in Turkey!
Student Visas
Do you need a visa to enter Turkey to study? Learn more about the student visa process, and what you need to enter the country, depending on your citizenship. Don't worry! Turkey keeps its process simple enough.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
Tuition fees for degree programs in Turkey can vary. Both international and domestic students are expected to pay tuition fees in Turkey, but these fees can vary a lot. We've put together information on how this works, and on scholarships, in this section.
Language & Culture
Turkey is a country rich in history and culture. Find out more about what the country offers in terms of language, culture, and more! We also talk about how to stay safe in Turkey in this section.
Application Process
Learn more about how to apply through Turkey's more American approach to applications, as well as the looser approach to postgraduate applications.
Programs
Ready to look at education in Turkey? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in Turkey today!
Author
The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.