Istanbul is one of the most attractive cities in Turkey, combining history, culture, and economic opportunities. While some areas are among the most expensive, there are many neighborhoods and areas that offer affordable housing options for families, students, and professionals.
In this guide, we review the 10 cheapest areas in Istanbul to live in, highlighting their key features in terms of location, amenities, and cost of living.
The 10 Cheapest Areas in Istanbul to Live in
- Esenyurt
Esenyurt is one of the most popular areas for those looking for cheap apartments in Istanbul , offering affordable housing options compared to central areas. It boasts a plethora of modern residential complexes, universities, and shopping centers, as well as proximity to the Metrobus line, which facilitates transportation to various parts of the city.
- Sultan Ghazi
Located northwest of European Istanbul, Sultangazi is an economical neighborhood that attracts middle-income families. Sultangazi offers good infrastructure and essential services such as schools and hospitals, and is close to highways leading to central Istanbul.
- Gaziosmanpaşa
An area relatively close to the city center, it is still considered a reasonable residential option compared to neighboring districts such as Fatih or Eyup. It boasts several new residential projects, along with shopping centers and daily services at competitive prices.
- Avcılar
An area located west of Istanbul overlooking the Sea of Marmara, it offers beautiful views and lower housing prices than other coastal areas. It is also home to Istanbul University - Avcılar, making it a suitable choice for students.
- Küçükçekmece
It is located near Lake Kucukcekmece and is connected to the metrobus and high-speed train lines leading to central Istanbul. Despite its rapid urban development, housing prices remain reasonable compared to neighboring areas such as Başakşehir or Beylikdüzü.
- Buyukcekmece
A large area overlooking the Sea of Marmara, it's a quiet and relatively affordable housing option, especially for families seeking larger spaces at lower prices. Despite its distance from the city center, it boasts private schools, universities, and recreational facilities along the promenade.
- Bağcılar
A vital area near the former Istanbul Airport (Ataturk), it is considered one of the most densely populated neighborhoods. What distinguishes it are its affordable prices and good connections to transportation such as the metro and Metrobus, making it suitable for employees and students.
- Arnavutköy
An area located north of European Istanbul, it is famous for its proximity to the new Istanbul Airport. Despite its relative distance from the city center, it offers apartments at lower prices compared to the growing demand in the areas surrounding the airport.
- Sancaktepe
One of the rising areas on the Asian side of Istanbul, it boasts modern residential projects at lower prices than neighboring areas such as Ümraniye and Ataşehir. Its proximity to the new metro line also increases its future value.
- Tuzla
Located on the far Asian side of Istanbul, it is an economical residential option with a relatively quiet environment. The area includes major industrial and commercial facilities, making it convenient for employees working in nearby factories and logistics areas.
Table of prices per square meter in the 10 cheapest areas in Istanbul (2025 )
The area | Average price per sqm | Main features |
Esenyurt | 700 – 1,000 USD | Modern complexes, near metrobus, universities and malls. |
Sultan Ghazi | 800 – 1,100 USD | Economical prices, close to highways, family environment. |
Gaziosmanpaşa | 1,000 – 1,300 USD | Near the center, new projects, integrated services. |
Avcılar | 900 – 1,200 USD | Sea view, Istanbul University - Avcilar. |
Küçükçekmece | 1,000 – 1,400 USD | Near metrobus and train, Kucukcekmece Lake. |
Buyukcekmece | 900 – 1,200 USD | Sea views, spacious areas, quiet environment. |
Bağcılar | 1,100 – 1,500 USD | Lively area, metro and metrobus, close to the old airport. |
Arnavutköy | 700 – 1,000 USD | Near the new Istanbul Airport, low prices. |
Sancaktepe | 1,000 – 1,300 USD | Modern projects, future growth, new metro line. |
Tuzla | 800 – 1,100 USD | Low prices, quiet environment, industrial and logistics facilities. |
Binaa Investment is your ideal choice
Searching for the cheapest areas in Istanbul to live in doesn't mean compromising on quality of life or losing out on essential amenities. On the contrary, these areas offer investment and residential opportunities that combine reasonable prices with comprehensive services. Whether you're a student looking for an affordable apartment, a family seeking a stable environment at reasonable prices, or even an investor seeking to purchase property in a promising area, Istanbul offers a variety of options to meet all your needs.
Through our team at Binaa Investment, we help you choose the most appropriate area and project according to your budget and goals, providing free consultations and exclusive offers, in addition to following up on all legal and administrative procedures until the title deed is received.
Contact us today to learn about the best real estate opportunities in Istanbul and make your investment a safe step towards a more stable future.
