One of the most common questions we hear at Alanya Realty from our European and Russian clients is: “Turkey is beautiful, but is it still affordable?”https://alanyarealty.com/
The global economy has changed, and inflation is a topic everywhere. However, when you compare the quality of life in Alanya to major cities in Europe, the UK, or Russia, the answer remains a resounding YES.
Alanya continues to offer a luxury Mediterranean lifestyle at a fraction of the cost of living in the West. Here is a realistic, transparent breakdown of what it costs to live in paradise in 2025.
1. The Weekly Shop: Supermarkets vs. The “Pazar”
One of the greatest joys of living in Alanya is the food. You don’t need to rely on expensive frozen meals. Here, fresh produce is king.
- The Local Bazaar (Pazar): Every neighborhood in Alanya has a weekly open-air market. Here, fruit and vegetables are incredibly cheap because they are grown locally in the Antalya region. You can fill your fridge with fresh peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, oranges, and greens for a very small amount.
- Supermarkets: Chains like Migros, Bim, and Şok are everywhere. While imported goods (like specific cheeses or alcohol) are pricier, everyday staples remain very affordable.
Estimated Grocery Prices (2025 Average):
| Item | Unit | Estimated Price (USD) | Estimated Price (EUR) |
| Bread (Fresh Loaf) | 1 Loaf | $0.30 – $0.50 | €0.25 – €0.45 |
| Milk | 1 Liter | $0.90 – $1.10 | €0.85 – €1.00 |
| Eggs | 15 Pack | $2.00 – $2.50 | €1.80 – €2.30 |
| Chicken Breast | 1 kg | $5.50 – $7.00 | €5.00 – €6.50 |
| Local Cheese (Beyaz Peynir) | 1 kg | $6.00 – $9.00 | €5.50 – €8.50 |
| Seasonal Fruits/Veg | 1 kg | $0.50 – $1.50 | €0.45 – €1.40 |
Local Tip: Shop at the evening markehttps://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Alanyats for even lower prices on vegetables, or visit the local butcher (Kasap) for better quality meat than supermarkets.
“To see a real-time comparison between Alanya and your current city, you can check Numbeo’s global cost of living database.”
2. Household Bills: Utilities and Internet
In Europe, energy bills have become a massive burden. In Alanya, while prices have risen slightly, they are still manageable, especially considering the climate.
- Electricity: Your bill will depend heavily on your Air Conditioning usage. In July and August, your bill will be higher. In spring and autumn, it drops significantly as you won’t need heating or cooling.
- Water: Water is generally inexpensive in Turkey.
- Internet: Turkey has reliable fiber optic infrastructure in most of Alanya. You can get unlimited high-speed home internet for a fraction of European prices.
Monthly Average for a 2-Bedroom Apartment:
- Electricity: $40 – $100 (varies by AC usage)
- Water: $10 – $20
- Home Internet: $10 – $15
- Mobile Phone Plan (20GB+ Data): $10 – $15
3. Property Costs: Aidat (HOA Fees)
When you buy a property in Alanya, especially in modern complexes with pools, saunas, and gyms, you will pay a monthly maintenance fee known as “Aidat.”
This fee covers:
- Swimming pool cleaning and maintenance.
- Security personnel and cameras.
- Gardening and elevator maintenance.
- Cleaning of common areas.
Typical Cost: Depending on the luxury level of the complex, Aidat usually ranges from $30 to $100 per month. Considering this gives you access to 5-star hotel amenities right at your doorstep, it is excellent value.
4. Dining Out and Social Life
This is where the difference is most felt. In many European cities, dining out is a “special occasion” luxury. In Alanya, it is a way of life.
You can enjoy a high-quality meal by the sea without breaking the bank.
- Coffee/Tea at a Cafe: $1.50 – $3.00
- Traditional Turkish Breakfast (Serpme Kahvaltı): $10 – $15 per person (Unlimited food!)
- Dinner for Two (Mid-range restaurant with drinks): $30 – $50
- Street Food (Döner/Kebab): $3.00 – $5.00
5. Transportation
You do not strictly need a car in Alanya. The public transport system is efficient, and taxis are accessible.
- Public Bus: A ride within the city costs less than $0.70.
- Taxi: Taxis run on a meter. Short trips within the city center are generally between $5 – $10.
- Car Rental: Daily rentals are affordable, making weekend trips to Antalya or ancient ruins easy.
The Verdict: A Lifestyle Upgrade
When you add it all up, the cost of living in Alanya allows you to upgrade your lifestyle.
For a budget of $1,500 – $2,000 per month, a couple can live a very comfortable, even luxurious life in Alanya—eating out frequently, using AC without fear, and enjoying their complex’s amenities. In London, Paris, or Moscow, this budget often barely covers rent.
Alanya offers you more than just low prices; it offers a rich life.
