For many British expats and long-term visitors, Kalkan offers not just sea views and sunny days, but also a noticeable drop in living expenses. But how much do people really save compared to life in the UK?
This 2025 guide breaks down what British residents typically spend in Kalkan versus common costs back home — from housing and groceries to healthcare and dining out.
Contents
Housing Costs: Kalkan Is the Clear Winner
In Kalkan, property prices and rental costs are significantly lower than in most UK towns. For example:
- A two-bedroom apartment in central Kalkan: £400–£600 per month (long-term)
- A detached villa with sea view: £800–£1,200 per month (long-term)
- Property tax for a typical villa: £100–£250 annually
In comparison, average rent for a two-bedroom flat in southern England easily exceeds £1,200 per month, not including council tax or utilities.
Utilities and Internet
Day-to-day utility bills in Kalkan are also much lower. Based on 2025 data:
- Electricity and water for a small home: £40–£70 per month
- High-speed internet: £10–£20 per month
- Mobile phone plan with data: £5–£10 per month
Many homes in Kalkan also use solar water heating, which helps reduce monthly energy use.
Grocery Shopping and Food Prices
Grocery shopping in Kalkan is both affordable and seasonal. Local produce, cheese, and olive oil are widely available and inexpensive.
Here’s a rough comparison:
- 1 kg tomatoes: £0.50 in Kalkan vs. £2 in the UK
- 1 loaf of fresh bread: £0.30 in Kalkan vs. £1.20 in the UK
- 1 liter of milk: £0.80 in Kalkan vs. £1.50 in the UK
Imported goods and packaged snacks are more expensive, but shopping local is a lifestyle many expats embrace.
Eating Out: More Often, Less Cost
One of the biggest joys of life in Kalkan is dining out regularly without overspending:
- Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant: £20–£30
- Breakfast with tea and fresh juice: £5–£8 per person
- Takeaway pide or lahmacun: £2–£4
In the UK, the same meals could easily cost double or triple. Many expats dine out three to four times a week, something that would feel like a luxury back home.
Transportation and Fuel
Kalkan is small and walkable, so many people don’t need a car at all. For those who do drive:
- Petrol price in 2025: Around £1.30 per liter
- Car insurance: £100–£200 per year
- Public transport (dolmuş minibuses): £0.50–£1.50 per ride
There’s no underground or rail system in Kalkan, but for most needs, that’s not a drawback.
Healthcare and Insurance
Private healthcare in Turkey is high quality and far more affordable than private options in the UK:
- GP consultation at a private clinic: £10–£25
- Full dental cleaning: £20–£40
- Private health insurance: £400–£800 annually per adult
Pharmacies are widely available, and many medications do not require a prescription.
Overall Monthly Living Cost for a British Couple in Kalkan
| Category | Kalkan (monthly) | UK (monthly) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (2-bed flat) | £500 | £1,200 |
| Utilities & internet | £70 | £250 |
| Groceries | £200 | £400 |
| Dining out | £150 | £300+ |
| Transport | £50 | £150+ |
| Healthcare (private) | £70 | £300+ |
| Total | £1,040 | £2,600+ |
A Lifestyle Upgrade That Costs Less
Living in Kalkan not only feels more relaxed, but also stretches your money further. For British expats, the savings are real and they add up quickly. Lower bills, fresh local food, and affordable private services make it possible to enjoy a higher quality of life on a smaller budget.
