Barcelona vs Istanbul: Cost of Living Compared

Istanbul is roughly 36% cheaper overall — about $1,409 versus $2,217 per month for a single person. A city-centre one-bedroom averages $1,052 in Istanbul against $1,664 in Barcelona. Barcelona scores higher on safety (72 vs 30/100). Internet is faster in Barcelona (263 vs 69 Mbps).

City Comparer

Barcelona, Spain
BarcelonaSpain
Istanbul, Turkey
IstanbulTurkey
86%overall match
Barcelona leads in bikeabilityBarcelona leads in safetyBarcelona has 281% faster internet
💰Cost🛡️Safety☀️Weather🎭Culture🏄Activities🌐Internet
BarcelonaIstanbul
Daily Cost$74/day
$47/day
Monthly Cost$2,217
$1,409
Rent$1,100
$1,052
Safety72
30
Healthcare77
70
Air Quality81
76
Tourist Safety62
55
Disaster Risk18
40
Winter High56°F
53°F
Summer High85°F
88°F
Sunny Days347
306
Rainy Days60
103
Nightlife93
62
Food90
88
Culture92
88
Coffee Culture78
85
Veg Friendly68
58
Late Night5/6
4/6
Cleanliness62
55
Green Spaces65
50
Hiking60
55
Beaches82
65
Surfing15
0
Skiing35
25
Diving15
15
Yoga60
35
Running72
45
Sports95
70
Bikeability65
15
Internet263 Mbps
69 Mbps
Transit82
68
Walkability88
72
Cowork Spaces72
40
Power Reliability100
100

Barcelona vs Istanbul FAQ

Is Barcelona or Istanbul cheaper to live in?

Istanbul is cheaper — about $1,409 per month versus $2,217, roughly 36% less.

Is Barcelona or Istanbul safer?

Barcelona scores higher: 72/100 versus 30/100.

Which has faster internet, Barcelona or Istanbul?

Barcelona — median download speeds are 263 Mbps versus 69 Mbps.