Deutsche Bank report highlights income and housing trends in global cities

A 2026 study by the Deutsche Bank Research Institute comparing 69 major cities has revealed significant disparities in income and real estate costs.

Regarding monthly earnings, Zurich, Switzerland, ranked first with an average post-tax monthly income of $8,363. San Francisco followed in second place with $7,601, and Geneva took third with $7,444. In contrast, Istanbul ranked 56th among the cities studied, with an average net monthly income of $1,173, placing it behind Athens.

In terms of real estate, Istanbul was identified as the most affordable city in Europe for purchasing central housing, with a price of €2,646 per square meter. This figure is approximately 71% below the average for the 28 European cities surveyed, which stood at €9,090 per square meter. Athens was the next most affordable at €3,442 per square meter. Conversely, Zurich was named the most expensive city for housing, with prices reaching €22,910 per square meter.