🇮🇷 Cost of Living: Iran vs Turkey — Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameIslamic Republic of Iran
CapitalTehran
Population86.0 million
Area1,648,195 km² (636371 sq mi)
LanguagesPersian (Farsi)
CurrencyIranian rial (ï·¼)
TimezoneUTC+03:30
RegionAsia / Southern Asia
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$19,874 (2024)
Inflation Rate32.5% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$267 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend43.1% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)2.8% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Iran is generally cheaper than Turkey, with an overall cost of living that is around 20-30% lower.
Quick Facts
Iran GDP per Capita (PPP)11,443
Turkey GDP per Capita (PPP)28,346
Iran Inflation Rate34.6
Turkey Inflation Rate11.2
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Iran
Overview: Iran vs Turkey
Iran and Turkey are two neighboring countries in the Middle East with distinct economic profiles. Iran has a largely state-controlled economy, while Turkey has a more diversified and open economy. In terms of cost of living, Iran is generally cheaper than Turkey, with lower prices for housing, food, and transportation. However, Turkey has a more developed tourism infrastructure and a wider range of consumer goods, which can drive up costs for expats and tourists.
The economic context of the two countries is also different, with Iran facing international sanctions and a more isolated economy, while Turkey is a member of the G20 and has a more integrated economy with Europe. Despite these differences, both countries offer a unique cultural and historical experience for visitors and expats, with a rich heritage and natural beauty. Iran's cost of living is around 20-30% lower than Turkey's, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers and expats.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Iran (USD)
Turkey (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
200
350
43% cheaper
1BR Apartment (Outside)
150
250
40% cheaper
3BR Apartment (City Center)
400
600
33% cheaper
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Iran (USD)
Turkey (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
5
10
50% cheaper
Groceries (monthly)
100
150
33% cheaper
Beer (500ml)
2
5
60% cheaper
Coffee
1
2
50% cheaper
Transport Comparison
Item
Iran (USD)
Turkey (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
10
20
50% cheaper
Taxi (per km)
0.5
1
50% cheaper
Fuel (per liter)
0.5
1.5
67% cheaper
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Iran (USD)
Turkey (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
50
100
50% cheaper
Internet (60 Mbps)
20
30
33% cheaper
Mobile Plan
10
20
50% cheaper
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Iran (USD)
Turkey (USD)
Savings
Budget
500
800
37%
Mid-Range
1,000
1,500
33%
Comfortable
2,000
3,000
33%
Where Each Country Wins
Iran is cheaper for:
Housing and rent, with prices 30-40% lower than in Turkey
Food and dining, with meal prices 50% lower than in Turkey
Transportation, with taxi and fuel prices 50-67% lower than in Turkey
Utilities and internet, with prices 33-50% lower than in Turkey
Turkey is cheaper for:
Certain consumer goods, such as electronics and clothing, which are more widely available and often cheaper in Turkey
Tourist activities and attractions, which are more developed and diverse in Turkey
Healthcare and medical services, which are more modern and widely available in Turkey
International travel, with more flights and connections available from Turkish airports
Bottom Line
Iran offers better value for budget-conscious travelers and expats, with lower prices for housing, food, and transportation. However, Turkey offers a more developed tourism infrastructure and a wider range of consumer goods, which can be attractive for expats and tourists who value convenience and variety. For students and families, Iran may be a more affordable option, while for retirees and digital nomads, Turkey may offer more amenities and services. Ultimately, the choice between Iran and Turkey depends on individual priorities and lifestyle preferences.