Kalkan vs Istanbul – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Kalkan, Turkey and Istanbul, Turkey? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Kalkan has a monthly cost of $2,260, which is 11.0% lower than Istanbul's $2,540.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Kalkan offers 50 Mbps, while Istanbul provides 50 Mbps – making Istanbul's connection 0.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Kalkan is currently 22°C 🌤️, while Istanbul is experiencing 24°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Kalkan has a safety score of 75.0 , while Istanbul scores 64.0 .

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Overall
Quality of Life
Kalkan is 11% better
Istanbul is 12% better
Cost
Kalkan wins
Kalkan is 16% better
Climate
Kalkan wins
Kalkan is 38% better
Infrastructure
Social
Istanbul wins
Istanbul is 34% better
Istanbul is 9% better
Istanbul is 6% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Kalkan | Istanbul | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $2,260 | $2,540 | -11.0% |
Daily Average | $75 | $85 | per day |
Housing
Item | Kalkan | Istanbul | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $350.00 per month | $450.00 per month | -22.2% |
Daily Life
Item | Kalkan | Istanbul | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $1.50 per cup | $1.50 per cup | 0.0% |
Transportation
Item | Kalkan | Istanbul | Difference |
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Utilities
Item | Kalkan | Istanbul | Difference |
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Final Verdict: Kalkan vs Istanbul
Istanbul ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 2.0% higher than Kalkan overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,260 vs $2,540
- Daily Expenses: $75 vs $85
- Kalkan is 11.0% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Istanbul leads with 0% faster connection
- Public Transport: Istanbul has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Kalkan Wins In:
- Safety (11% better)
- Cost of Living (16% better)
- Air Quality (38% better)
Istanbul Wins In:
- Healthcare (12% better)
- Nightlife (34% better)
- Culture (9% better)
- Food Scene (6% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Istanbul if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Healthcare. However, Kalkan might be preferable if Healthcare is your top priority. Both cities offer unique advantages for digital nomads, with distinct trade-offs in cost of living, infrastructure, and lifestyle options.
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