🇮🇶 Cost of Living: Iraq vs Turkey — Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameRepublic of Iraq
CapitalBaghdad
Population46.1 million
Area438,317 km² (169,235 sq mi)
LanguagesArabic, Aramaic, Sorani
CurrencyIraqi dinar (ع.د)
TimezoneUTC+03:00
RegionAsia / Western Asia
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$14,464 (2024)
Inflation Rate-12.3% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$333 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend54.0% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Iraq is generally cheaper than Turkey, with an approximate overall cost of living difference of 20-30% in favor of Iraq.
Quick Facts
Iraq GDP per Capita (PPP)$6,449
Turkey GDP per Capita (PPP)$28,429
Iraq Inflation Rate2.5%
Turkey Inflation Rate11.2%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Iraq
Overview: Iraq vs Turkey
The cost of living in Iraq and Turkey varies significantly due to differences in economic context, lifestyle, and purchasing power. Iraq has a lower GDP per capita and inflation rate compared to Turkey, which contributes to its lower cost of living. In general, Iraq offers a more affordable lifestyle, with lower prices for housing, food, and transportation. However, Turkey provides a more developed infrastructure, better healthcare, and a wider range of amenities, which may justify its higher costs for some expats and travelers.
The economic context of both countries also plays a crucial role in determining the cost of living. Iraq's economy is largely driven by oil exports, while Turkey has a more diversified economy with a strong focus on manufacturing, tourism, and services. This diversity contributes to Turkey's higher costs, but also provides a more stable and predictable environment for businesses and individuals. In contrast, Iraq's economy is more vulnerable to fluctuations in global oil prices, which can impact the cost of living and overall stability.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Iraq (USD)
Turkey (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
$150
$250
40% cheaper in Iraq
1BR Apartment (Outside)
$100
$180
44% cheaper in Iraq
3BR Apartment (City Center)
$300
$500
40% cheaper in Iraq
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Iraq (USD)
Turkey (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
$5
$10
50% cheaper in Iraq
Groceries (monthly)
$100
$150
33% cheaper in Iraq
Beer (500ml)
$2
$3
33% cheaper in Iraq
Coffee
$1
$2
50% cheaper in Iraq
Transport Comparison
Item
Iraq (USD)
Turkey (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
$10
$25
60% cheaper in Iraq
Taxi (per km)
$0.50
$1
50% cheaper in Iraq
Fuel (per liter)
$0.50
$1.20
58% cheaper in Iraq
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Iraq (USD)
Turkey (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
$50
$80
37% cheaper in Iraq
Internet (60 Mbps)
$20
$30
33% cheaper in Iraq
Mobile Plan
$10
$20
50% cheaper in Iraq
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Iraq (USD)
Turkey (USD)
Savings
Budget
$400
$600
33% savings in Iraq
Mid-Range
$800
$1,200
33% savings in Iraq
Comfortable
$1,500
$2,500
40% savings in Iraq
Where Each Country Wins
Iraq is cheaper for:
Housing, with apartments ranging from 40-44% cheaper than in Turkey
Food, with meals and groceries costing 33-50% less than in Turkey
Transportation, with taxis, fuel, and transit passes costing 50-60% less than in Turkey
Turkey is cheaper for:
Certain luxury goods, such as high-end electronics and clothing, which may be 10-20% cheaper than in Iraq
Tourist attractions and activities, which can be more affordable and accessible in Turkey
Healthcare, with better-equipped hospitals and more qualified medical staff available in Turkey
Bottom Line
For expats, students, and retirees, Iraq may offer a more affordable lifestyle, with significant savings on housing, food, and transportation. However, Turkey provides a more developed infrastructure, better healthcare, and a wider range of amenities, which may be worth the extra cost for some individuals. Families may also prefer Turkey for its more stable and predictable environment, as well as its better schools and educational opportunities. Ultimately, the choice between Iraq and Turkey depends on individual priorities and lifestyle preferences. While Iraq is generally cheaper, Turkey offers a more comprehensive and comfortable living experience, making it a better value for those who can afford it.