Cost of Living in Turkey for Retirees (Real Prices)

Perhaps you’ve heard about the inflation rate in Turkey. Yes, it’s high. But the more important consideration is how that would affect you as a retiree living in Turkey, what your cost of living would be, and how it would compare to your current situation.

Inflation vs Real Living Costs

It should be noted that about 65% of the Turkish CPI is weighted toward things you wouldn’t buy regularly. And if you purchase a home for Turkish Citizenship by Investment, you won’t be paying rent, so rental inflation is irrelevant.

If you are like us, your regular monthly expenses would include food, gasoline, utilities, and an occasional lunch or dinner out. In our case, those expenditures total less than our monthly U.S. Social Security income, and our overall cost of living is definitely lower in Turkey.

It helps that the U.S. dollar has appreciated 23% against the Turkish lira over the last 12 months, and we pay no property taxes on our home here. Contact James & Aysegul for details on qualifying for the property tax exemption and Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment program; it’s the most attractive anywhere in the world.

Grocery Prices in Turkey (Upscale Store)

Now let’s go shopping at an upscale grocery store, although prices are lower at discount grocery stores and at the farmer’s market. Here’s a shopping list and prices we pay (converted to U.S. weights and currency):

Prices correct as of February 2026

• 1 lb Norwegian salmon — $5.25
• 1 lb lamb chops — $17.75
• 1 lb hamburger patties — $9.67
• 1 qt organic milk — $1.87
• 1 dozen organic, pasture-raised eggs — $4.20
• 1 loaf of artisan bread — $1.75
• 1 lb imported English cheddar cheese — $8.50
• 1 lb oranges — $0.85
• 1 head of romaine lettuce — $1.42
• 1 lb tomatoes — $0.70
• 1 qt organic olive oil — $9.45
• 1 lb organic potatoes — $0.97
• 1 bottle of dish liquid — $1.07
• 12 rolls of paper towels — $7.00

Clothing Prices on the Turkish Riviera

Now let’s buy some clothes appropriate for casual wear along the Turkish Riviera.

• Men’s 100% linen pants — $25
• Men’s 100% linen shirt — $25
• Men’s casual shoes — $35
• Men’s cotton polo shirt — $15
• Women’s dress loafers — $75
• Women’s linen dress — $40
• Women’s light sweater — $15

Dining Out in Yalikavak

Dinner for two at an upscale restaurant in Yalikavak, including soup or salad, a main course, dessert, a glass of wine, and gratuity, costs about $130. A casual lunch costs about $25 to $30 for two people.

Turkey is not as cheap as it once was. Even though it has been “discovered,” it still has tremendous upside investment potential.

Thinking About Retiring in Turkey?

Retirees interested in Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment program are encouraged to begin their due diligence investigation now. Your first step should be to contact James & Aysegul. They are much more than real estate agents; they are trusted advisors who will help you navigate the complexities of acquiring Turkish Citizenship by Investment. From finding the perfect property for you, to handling bureaucratic filing requirements, and to helping you get settled in Turkey. What they provide can truly be called “concierge service.”

Read more about the quality of life here on the Turkish Riviera here.