Cost of living and prices in İzmir, prices of food, rent, shopping, etc. 🇹🇷
Updated Jul 2023

İzmir, Turkey is a foodie paradise with a wide variety of restaurants and eating options. One of the most famous local specialties is boyoz, a savory pastry stuffed with cheese, spinach, or meat. Another must-try dish is kumru, a sesame seed-covered sandwich filled with grilled meats and cheese. Seafood lovers can enjoy fresh catches from the Aegean Sea, such as octopus, squid, and sea bass. Vegetarians and vegans won't be disappointed either, with many restaurants offering flavorful plant-based options. Some restaurants also offer stunning views of the sea or the city.

In addition to the local cuisine, İzmir also has a vibrant street food scene. Popular street foods include simit, a circular bread covered in sesame seeds, and midye dolma, mussels stuffed with seasoned rice and served with lemon. For those looking for a quick and cheap bite, there are also many food carts and vendors selling döner kebab, dürüm wraps, and lahmacun, a thin flatbread topped with minced meat, vegetables, and spices. Whether you're in the mood for a casual snack or an elaborate meal, İzmir offers endless options to satisfy your cravings.

Market prices in Izmir, Turkey can be quite different from what you might expect. While food is generally affordable, other goods can be quite expensive. This is because Izmir is a coastal city with a high standard of living. For example, electronics and imported items are often priced higher than what you might find in other parts of the country.

However, one great thing about shopping in Izmir is the abundance of local produce and handmade goods. Markets and bazaars can be found all over the city, selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to artisanal crafts. Prices for these goods vary depending on the season and the vendor, but you can generally find high-quality and unique items at reasonable prices.

If you're traveling to İzmir, you'll find that it's a bustling city with plenty of options for getting around. One interesting transportation option is the Metrolink. This modern and efficient system includes both light rail and bus options, with routes that cover much of the city and surrounding areas. With frequent departures and easy-to-use mobile ticketing, the Metrolink is a great way to explore İzmir without worrying about parking or traffic.

Another transportation option that's worth checking out in İzmir is the ferry system. With services that connect the city to nearby coastal towns and islands, the ferry is not only a practical means of transportation, but also a scenic way to take in the beauty of the Aegean Sea. Whether you're looking to visit historical landmarks, soak up the sun on sandy beaches, or enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant, the ferry system offers a unique and memorable experience for a day trip or longer excursion.

When traveling to İzmir, it is important to take into account the cost of utilities. While the city offers modern amenities, such as reliable electricity and water supply, these can come at a cost. Visitors should anticipate higher utility rates during peak summer months when air conditioning usage is frequent.

One way to save on utilities while traveling in İzmir is to be mindful of energy consumption. Many hotels and accommodations offer energy-saving options, such as timers on air conditioning units, and guests can also be conscious of turning off lights and electronics when they are not in use. Additionally, taking advantage of public transportation or walking can help reduce transportation costs and lower emissions, contributing to a more sustainable and cost-effective visit to İzmir.

As a bustling metropolitan city on the Aegean coast of Turkey, İzmir offers a wide variety of sports and leisure activities for travelers to enjoy. Visitors can take in stunning views of the city and sea by hiking or biking along the popular Kordonboyu promenade, while those seeking a adrenaline rush can try their hand at paragliding or scuba diving at nearby beaches. İzmir is also home to several large parks, such as Kültürpark and Gaziemir Park, where locals and visitors alike can relax and enjoy outdoor activities such as picnicking, playing sports, or attending festivals and concerts throughout the year.

For sports enthusiasts, İzmir is home to two professional soccer teams, Göztepe and Altay, as well as several sports centers, gyms, and fitness studios scattered throughout the city. Visitors can rent a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard and explore the beautiful coastline, or play a round of golf at one of the many golf courses around the city. İzmir's rich cultural history is also reflected in its sports scene, with traditional games such as oil wrestling and meşin topu (a form of football played with a leather ball) still popular among locals. Whatever your interests, İzmir's lively sports and leisure scene is sure to appeal to travelers looking for an exciting, active getaway.

If you're planning a trip to Izmir, it's important to know that salaries and financing can vary widely depending on your profession and sector. Overall, it's safe to say that salaries in Izmir tend to be lower than in other major Turkish cities like Istanbul or Ankara, but the city is still relatively affordable for travelers. If you plan to work in Izmir, it's important to do your research and understand the industry standards and cost of living before you make any major financial decisions.

Financing in Izmir can also be a bit complicated, as the city is home to a wide range of banking and financial institutions. Whether you're looking for a local bank branch or an international financial service provider, there are plenty of options to choose from in Izmir. In general, it's a good idea to plan ahead and research your financing options before you arrive in the city, so you can avoid any potential complications or delays. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can navigate the financial landscape of Izmir with ease.

Childcare prices in İzmir, Turkey can vary depending on the quality of the school or Kindergarten you choose. Some institutions may offer more affordable prices, but the quality of care may not be up to par. On the other hand, some establishments may offer exceptional care but with a higher price tag. It is important to do your research and choose a childcare provider that fits your budget and meets your expectations.

When it comes to schools and Kindergartens, there are many options available in İzmir. Some institutions may be more traditional while others may incorporate more modern teaching methods. It is also common for schools to offer extracurricular activities such as music or sports. Whether you choose a school or Kindergarten, it is important to consider factors such as location, curriculum, and teacher qualifications. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your own preferences as well as the needs of your child.

When it comes to clothing and shoes in İzmir, there are plenty of options to choose from. From high-end designer brands to budget-friendly stores, you're sure to find stores that cater to your taste and budget. For those who want to splurge on luxury items, the high-end stores in popular shopping districts like Kordonboyu and Alsancak are a must-visit. But if you're looking for affordable options, you can find plenty of stores in Üçkuyular, Mavişehir, and Bornova. And if you want to hunt for bargains, the local markets like Kemeraltı Bazaar offer a unique shopping experience where you can haggle for the best prices.

When it comes to shoes, İzmir is known for its leather products. You can find a wide variety of leather shoes in stores all over the city, from trendy and fashionable to classic and timeless. Besides leather shoes, there are also stores that offer a range of shoe styles, including sports shoes, sandals, and boots. If you're looking for comfortable shoes for traveling or walking, many local stores offer comfortable and stylish options. Whether you're looking for casual sandals or formal boots, there's no shortage of shoe stores to choose from in İzmir.

If you are planning a short stay in İzmir, Turkey, you have many accommodation options to choose from. From cozy apartments to spacious villas, you can find a place that suits your needs and budget. Short rent allows you to enjoy the city without committing to a long-term lease or investing in property. This flexibility makes it easier for tourists, students, and business travelers alike to find a comfortable home away from home in İzmir.

Whether you want to enjoy the bustling city center or the serene outskirts, you can find a short rent option that caters to your needs. Short stays can be as brief as a night or as long as several months, depending on your plans and preferences. While prices may vary depending on the location, size, and amenities of the rental property, you can find options to fit any budget. With many rental options available, you can compare prices and features to find the perfect short stay in İzmir.

Izmir, the third-largest city in Turkey, has seen a surge in demand for real estate in recent years. The city offers a wide range of buying options, from apartments and villas to commercial properties and land. Buying real estate in Izmir can be a great investment, with prices relatively lower than Istanbul and the real estate market expected to grow in the coming years. Whether you are looking for a second home, holiday rental, or a long-term investment, Izmir has something to offer for every budget and taste.

When it comes to buying real estate in Izmir, there are various factors to consider, such as location, property type, and amenities. The prices of properties in Izmir vary depending on these factors, among others. While some areas may be more expensive than others, Izmir generally offers affordable real estate compared to other major cities in Turkey. The city also offers a variety of payment plans and financing options to make it easier for buyers to invest in real estate. Whether you want to buy a property for personal use or investment purposes, Izmir's real estate market is worth considering for its promising potential and diverse buying options.