Complete Guide to Moving to Turkey in 2026

Turkey sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia — literally. The Bosphorus strait slices Istanbul in two, with one foot on each continent. It is a country of 85 million people, 2,500 years of recorded urban history, and a culinary tradition that rivals any on Earth. Istanbul alone is home to 16 million people, making it larger than most European countries’ capital cities combined.

In recent years, Turkey has become one of the most compelling destinations for digital nomads, retirees, and location-independent workers. The reason is simple: the Turkish lira has lost over 80% of its value against the US dollar since 2018. For anyone earning in hard currency, this means a dramatically high quality of life at a fraction of Western costs. A sit-down meal at a local restaurant runs $3–$5. A one-bedroom apartment in a desirable Istanbul neighborhood costs $400–$600 per month. World-class private healthcare is available for $50–$200 per month in insurance premiums.

The honest caveats matter too. The lira’s volatility creates a dual reality: extraordinary value for foreign earners, genuine hardship for locals paid in lira. The political landscape is complex, with media freedom more restricted than Western norms. Earthquake risk is a real concern, particularly in Istanbul. Bureaucracy requires patience. These are not dealbreakers — but they are realities you should understand before committing.

Whether you are a remote worker drawn to Istanbul’s booming coworking scene, a retiree seeking Mediterranean warmth on the Antalya coast, or an entrepreneur eyeing Turkey’s growing startup ecosystem, this guide covers everything you need to know about making the move in 2026 — including the parts that most expat guides leave out.

At WhereNext, we score every country across seven data-driven dimensions using institutional sources. You can explore the full Turkey country profile for real-time data, or keep reading for the comprehensive breakdown. Turkey consistently ranks among the cheapest countries to live in and is increasingly popular with remote workers seeking affordability.

Cost of Living: Istanbul, Antalya, and Beyond

Turkey’s cost of living is the headline attraction for expats earning in foreign currency. The ongoing lira devaluation means prices in dollar terms are remarkably low, even as local inflation has driven up nominal costs in lira. Here is a realistic city-by-city breakdown for 2026.

Istanbul

Istanbul is Turkey’s most expensive city, and it is still strikingly affordable by any global standard. A one-bedroom apartment in desirable neighborhoods like Kadıköy, Beşiktaş, or Cihangir runs $400–$600 per month. In upscale areas like Nişantaşı or Bebek, expect $700–$1,000. In the outer neighborhoods, $250–$350 is realistic. The neighborhood you choose makes a dramatic difference — not just in cost, but in lifestyle.

Here is a realistic breakdown of monthly expenses for a single person in Istanbul:

• Rent (1BR, city center): $400–$600
• Groceries: $150–$250 (local markets are significantly cheaper than supermarkets)
• Dining out: $100–$200 (a local restaurant meal costs $3–$5; a nicer sit-down dinner $8–$15; a full Turkish breakfast spread at a café $4–$8)
• Transport: ~$25 (Istanbulkart monthly pass covers metro, bus, ferry, and tram)
• Utilities: $40–$70 (electricity, water, gas — heating costs higher in winter)
• Internet: $15–$25 for 100+ Mbps fiber
• Gym membership: $20–$40
• Mobile phone: $10–$20 for 20GB+ data

Total monthly budget for a single person living comfortably in Istanbul: roughly $1,200–$2,200, depending on neighborhood and lifestyle. The food scene alone is worth highlighting — Istanbul has one of the cheapest high-quality dining experiences in any major city on Earth. A lahmacun (Turkish pizza) from a street vendor costs $1. A fresh fish sandwich by the Galata Bridge costs $2. A full meze dinner with rakı at a meyhane runs $15–$25. The value is genuinely extraordinary.

Antalya

Antalya is Turkey’s Mediterranean beach city, popular with Russian, German, and British expats as well as retirees. A one-bedroom in the city center costs $300–$500. Near the beaches of Konyaaltı or Lara, $350–$550 is typical. The old town (Kaleiçi) has more character but can be touristy and noisy in summer.

Total monthly budget: $800–$1,400. Antalya is roughly 25–35% cheaper than Istanbul across all categories. Groceries are cheaper (local produce is abundant and excellent), dining is less expensive, and entertainment costs are lower. The trade-off: fewer cultural attractions, a smaller international professional community, and a more seasonal economy that quiets down in winter.

İzmir

İzmir is Turkey’s third-largest city, known for its liberal character, Mediterranean climate, and a waterfront promenade (Kordon) that rivals any in Europe. A one-bedroom in the center costs $350–$550. Popular neighborhoods like Alsancak (trendy, walkable, full of bars and restaurants) and Bornova (university district, younger crowd) offer good value.

Total monthly budget: $900–$1,500. İzmir offers a balance between Istanbul’s urban energy and Antalya’s coastal relaxation. It has a growing expat community, good hospitals, and excellent domestic flight connections. İzmir residents will tell you it is the most livable city in Turkey — and they have a strong case.

The Lira Factor

The Turkish lira’s ongoing devaluation is the single most important cost-of-living factor for expats. Since 2018, the lira has lost over 80% of its value against the USD. Inflation hit 85% in 2022 and has remained elevated. For anyone earning in dollars, euros, or pounds, this creates an extraordinary value proposition — your purchasing power is three to five times what it would be in Western Europe. For context, a $2,000/month income in Istanbul provides a lifestyle equivalent to $6,000–$8,000 in Berlin or London.

The flip side: prices in lira terms are rising fast. Rent that cost 5,000 TL two years ago might cost 15,000 TL today. If you are converting from USD/EUR, this inflation is largely offset by the devaluation. But if your income were in lira, the squeeze would be real. This dynamic also creates pricing complexity — some landlords (especially in expat-heavy neighborhoods) quote rent in dollars or euros rather than lira, which reduces your currency advantage. Always negotiate in lira if possible.

Visa and Residency Options

Turkey offers several pathways to legal residency, but it is important to understand that the landscape has shifted significantly since 2023–2024. The government has tightened residence permit rules, particularly in Istanbul, where certain neighborhoods no longer issue permits to foreigners due to population density concerns. Here is what you need to know.

Tourist Visa / e-Visa

Citizens of most countries can obtain a Turkish e-Visa online before arrival. The standard allowance is 90 days within any 180-day period. US, UK, Canadian, and Australian citizens pay $50 for the e-Visa. EU citizens from many member states can enter visa-free for 90 days. The e-Visa is straightforward — apply at evisa.gov.tr, receive it via email, and present it at the border.

Many digital nomads historically used visa runs — spending 90 days in Turkey, leaving for 90 days (often to nearby Greece or Georgia), and returning. This still technically works, but Turkish immigration has become more scrutinizing of repeated entries without a residence permit. If you plan to stay long-term, a residence permit is the proper route.

Short-Term Residence Permit (İkamet)

This is the most common pathway for expats who want to live in Turkey legally for 1–2 years. The permit is renewable and requires:

• A rental contract (notarized) for at least one year
• Valid health insurance from a Turkish provider (typically $30–$80/month)
• Proof of sufficient funds (bank statement showing roughly $500+/month equivalent)
• Passport valid for at least 60 days beyond the permit period
• Biometric photos and application fee (~$100–$200)

Critical 2024–2025 update: Turkey has implemented a “foreigner saturation” policy. Neighborhoods where the foreign population exceeds a certain threshold are closed to new residence permit applications. In Istanbul, this affects popular expat areas like Fatih, Esenyurt, and parts of Beyoĝlu. Before signing a lease, confirm with the local migration office (İl Göç İdaresi) that your chosen neighborhood is accepting foreign residents. Antalya, İzmir, and other cities are generally less restrictive.

Long-Term Residence Permit

After eight consecutive years of legal residence in Turkey, you can apply for a long-term (indefinite) residence permit. This grants most of the rights of Turkish citizenship except voting. The eight-year requirement is strict — extended absences from Turkey can reset the clock.

Work Permit

Work permits are employer-sponsored and processed through the Ministry of Labor. The employer must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a Turkish citizen. Processing takes 1–3 months. The work permit doubles as a residence permit, so you do not need both.

For highly skilled professionals, Turkey offers the Turquoise Card — a points-based system modeled loosely on the US Green Card. It grants indefinite work and residence rights and is aimed at scientists, investors, athletes, and tech professionals. Approval is competitive but the benefits are significant: no renewal requirements and a path to citizenship after five years.

Citizenship by Investment

Turkey’s citizenship-by-investment program is one of the most straightforward in the world. The main routes:

• Real estate purchase: Buy property worth at least $400,000 and hold it for three years. The property can be residential or commercial, and multiple properties can be combined to meet the threshold.
• Bank deposit: Deposit $500,000 in a Turkish bank for three years.
• Capital investment: Invest $500,000 in Turkish government bonds or venture capital funds.
• Job creation: Employ at least 50 Turkish citizens.
• Naturalization: After 5 years of continuous legal residency, you can apply for citizenship through the standard naturalization process.

Processing time for the investment route is approximately 3–6 months. Turkish citizenship grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 110+ countries and does not require you to renounce your existing citizenship (Turkey allows dual nationality). This is one of the fastest and most accessible citizenship-by-investment programs globally.

Digital Nomad Considerations

Unlike Greece, Portugal, or Spain, Turkey does not currently offer a dedicated digital nomad visa. Remote workers typically enter on tourist visas or short-term residence permits. The legal gray area: a tourist visa does not authorize work, but the practical enforcement for people working remotely for foreign companies is minimal. Turkey has discussed introducing a nomad-specific visa — check for updates before you plan. For now, most long-term digital nomads obtain a short-term residence permit, which is the cleanest legal path. See our guide to the best countries for digital nomads for alternatives with dedicated visa programs.

Student Residence Permit

Students enrolled at Turkish universities receive a residence permit for the duration of their studies. Turkish universities have become increasingly international, with many offering English-language programs. Tuition for international students at public universities ranges from $600–$4,000 per year — a fraction of US or UK costs.

Healthcare: A Global Medical Tourism Hub

Turkey has quietly become one of the world’s leading medical tourism destinations, and that reputation is well-earned. The country’s private healthcare sector rivals Western Europe in quality while costing a fraction of the price. Over 1.2 million medical tourists visited Turkey in 2023 alone — primarily for dental work, hair transplants, eye surgery (LASIK), cosmetic procedures, and orthopedic surgery. For more on how Turkey’s healthcare compares globally, see our healthcare rankings.

Private healthcare is the standard for most expats. Istanbul has world-class hospital groups including Acıbadem (21 hospitals nationwide), Anadolu Medical Center (affiliated with Johns Hopkins), Memorial, Florence Nightingale, Medical Park, and Liv Hospital. These facilities are JCI-accredited, equipped with the latest technology, and staffed by doctors who frequently trained in the US, UK, or Germany. English-speaking care is widely available at all major private hospitals.

The cost comparison with Western countries is staggering:

• Private health insurance: $50–$150/month (vs. $300–$800+ in the US)
• Specialist consultation: $30–$60 (vs. $200–$500 in the US)
• Dental crown: $150–$250 (vs. $1,000–$1,500 in the US)
• LASIK eye surgery: $800–$1,500 (vs. $4,000–$6,000 in the US)
• MRI scan: $100–$200 (vs. $1,000–$3,000 in the US)
• Emergency room visit: $50–$150 (vs. $1,000–$3,000+ in the US)

Public healthcare (SGK) is available to residents who hold a valid residence permit and register with the social security system. After a mandatory waiting period (typically one year for non-working foreigners), you can access public hospitals and subsidized medications. Public hospital quality varies — major city hospitals are generally good, while smaller facilities can be overcrowded with longer wait times. The government has built massive “city hospitals” (şehir hastaneleri) in recent years — enormous modern complexes that have significantly improved public healthcare capacity.

Expat tip: Even if you register for SGK, maintain private insurance. The premium is low enough that the comfort, speed, and English-speaking access at private hospitals is well worth it. Turkish health insurance is also a requirement for residence permit renewal. Major Turkish insurance providers include Allianz Turkey, Anadolu Sigorta, and AXA Turkey.

Where to Live in Turkey

Turkey spans nearly 1,600 kilometers from east to west, and the character of life varies dramatically by region. Here are the areas most popular with expats, with honest assessments of each.

Istanbul — Kadıköy (Asian Side)

Kadıköy is the undisputed hipster capital of Istanbul and the number one recommendation for digital nomads. The Asian side of the city is calmer, greener, and more residential than the European side, and Kadıköy is its beating heart.

• Scene: Thriving café scene, independent bookshops, vintage stores, street art everywhere. The Tuesday street market is legendary — fresh produce, cheese, olives, and spices at rock-bottom prices.
• Commute: The ferry to the European side takes 20 minutes and is one of the great urban commutes on Earth — crossing the Bosphorus with tea in hand.
• Rent: $400–$600 for a one-bedroom.
• Vibe: Progressive, artistic, LGBTQ+-friendly by Turkish standards. Feels like Brooklyn or Kreuzberg at a fraction of the cost.
• Sub-neighborhoods: Moda is the quieter, tree-lined extension with seaside tea gardens ($450–$650). Üsküdar is more traditional and conservative, with stunning Bosphorus views ($350–$500).

Istanbul — Beşiktaş (European Side)

Central, vibrant, and full of character. Beşiktaş is home to the famous fish market, excellent restaurants, and easy access to Bosphorus ferries. It feels more authentically Turkish than some of the more expat-heavy neighborhoods — a younger, more local-feeling area with serious energy.

• Rent: $450–$650 for a one-bedroom.
• Best for: Expats who want to be immersed in Turkish culture while staying central. Excellent nightlife and dining.

Istanbul — Beyoĝlu / Galata / Cihangir

This cluster of neighborhoods on the European side is the historic cultural heart of modern Istanbul.

• Cihangir: Istanbul’s bohemian heart. Narrow streets lined with cafes, vintage shops, and galleries. A large international community. Views over the Bosphorus. Rent $500–$700. The most “expat-ready” neighborhood in Istanbul.
• Karaköy / Galata: Rapidly gentrified waterfront area. Trendy cafes, rooftop bars, and the iconic Galata Tower. Increasingly popular with digital nomads. Rent $450–$700.
• Beyoĝlu / Taksim: The tourist and nightlife center. İstiklal Avenue is bustling at all hours. More chaotic and commercialized, but the energy is undeniable. Rent $400–$600. Note: Beyoĝlu has been affected by the foreigner saturation policy — check permit availability before signing a lease.

Istanbul — Bakırköy (European Side)

Bakırköy is Istanbul’s family-friendly European side neighborhood. Located along the Marmara Sea coast with its own beach promenade, large parks, and a self-contained feel that means you rarely need to venture elsewhere. It has a well-established shopping district, excellent public transport (metro and Marmaray connections), and a more residential atmosphere than the central neighborhoods.

• Rent: $350–$550 for a one-bedroom.
• Best for: Families, retirees, and anyone who wants a neighborhood feel within a megacity. Good schools and hospitals nearby. Lower density than Kadıköy or Beşiktaş.

Antalya

Antalya is Turkey’s Mediterranean resort capital — 300 days of sunshine per year, long sandy beaches, and a picturesque old town (Kaleiçi). The expat community is large and well-established, predominantly Russian, German, and British. It is an excellent choice for retirees and anyone who prioritizes warm weather, beach access, and low costs over urban intensity. The Konyaaltı and Lara beach areas are most popular with foreigners. Rent: $300–$500 for a one-bedroom. Total budget: $800–$1,400.

İzmir

Often described as Turkey’s most progressive and cosmopolitan city. İzmir has a strong secular identity, excellent universities, and a walkable waterfront (the Kordon) that is the social center of city life. Alsancak is the trendy center; Bornova is the university district. İzmir is ideal for expats who want a Turkish city experience that is less intense than Istanbul but more culturally rich than Antalya. The city has a relaxed, almost Mediterranean European feel that sets it apart from the rest of Turkey. Rent: $350–$550. Total budget: $900–$1,500.

Bodrum

Turkey’s answer to the French Riviera — a peninsula dotted with whitewashed villages, turquoise coves, and upscale restaurants. In summer, it fills with Istanbul’s elite and international visitors. In winter, it quiets down dramatically but retains a small year-round expat community. It is beautiful and expensive by Turkish standards (though still cheap by Western ones). Rent $400–$700 in winter, significantly more in summer. Best for retirees and those who do not need urban infrastructure year-round.

Fethiye / Müĝla Region

The Fethiye area on Turkey’s southwestern coast is a hidden gem for long-term living. The turquoise coastline is spectacular, the pace of life is slow, and the British expat community is one of the largest in Turkey. Ölüdeniz (the Blue Lagoon) is nearby. Costs are very low — $700–$1,100 per month total budget is achievable. The downside: limited international infrastructure, few coworking spaces, and you will need a car.

Cappadocia

Cappadocia’s lunar landscapes, cave hotels, and hot-air balloon vistas make it one of the most unique places on Earth. A handful of expats have made it home, drawn by the surreal beauty and extremely low costs ($600–$900/month total budget). But be realistic: this is a small-town, tourist-driven economy with limited infrastructure, cold winters, and very few English speakers outside the tourism industry. Cappadocia is a fantastic place to visit or spend a month — living there permanently suits a very specific personality.

Taxes: What Expats Need to Know

Turkey taxes its tax residents on worldwide income. You become a tax resident if you spend more than six months (183 days) in Turkey within a calendar year, or if you establish a legal domicile. The progressive income tax rates are:

• 15% on the first ~110,000 TL (roughly $3,500)
• 20% on the next bracket up to ~230,000 TL
• 27% on the next bracket up to ~870,000 TL
• 35% on the next bracket up to ~3,000,000 TL
• 40% on income exceeding ~3,000,000 TL (roughly $95,000)

Because of the lira’s devaluation, the dollar thresholds for these brackets are remarkably low. A remote worker earning $50,000 annually would fall into the higher brackets in lira terms. However, the practical reality is more nuanced than the formal rates suggest.

In practice, the tax situation for many foreign remote workers in Turkey is a legal gray area. Many digital nomads live in Turkey on tourist visas or short-term residence permits and earn exclusively from foreign clients or employers. In theory, if they meet the 183-day threshold, they are tax residents and should declare worldwide income. In practice, Turkey’s tax authorities rarely pursue individuals earning foreign income who are not registered with the Turkish tax system, do not invoice Turkish clients, and do not use Turkish corporate structures.

This is not tax advice. If you plan to live in Turkey long-term, consult a Turkish tax advisor (they are affordable — roughly $100–$300 for a comprehensive consultation). Turkey has double tax treaties with over 80 countries, which can prevent double taxation if you maintain tax residency elsewhere.

Property taxes: Turkey does not charge capital gains tax on property held for more than five years — a notable advantage for real estate investors. Annual property taxes are relatively low, ranging from 0.1% to 0.6% of the assessed value depending on property type and location.

For US citizens: you file US taxes regardless of where you live. The FEIE (Foreign Earned Income Exclusion) allows you to exclude over $126,000 of foreign-earned income in 2026. The Foreign Tax Credit can offset any Turkish taxes paid. Turkey and the US have a bilateral tax treaty. See our comprehensive expat tax guide for details on managing your US obligations from abroad.

Internet and Remote Work Infrastructure

Istanbul has exploded as a digital nomad hub since 2020. The combination of low costs, excellent internet, incredible food, and a vibrant social scene has made it one of the top destinations in the world for remote workers. The city consistently ranks in the top 20 on Nomad List.

Internet quality is excellent in Istanbul, İzmir, and Ankara. Fiber connections offering 100–200+ Mbps are widely available through providers like Türk Telekom, Superonline, and TurkNet. A home internet plan costs $15–$25 per month. Mobile data is affordable — a tourist SIM with 20GB+ costs roughly $10–$20 per month from Turkcell, Vodafone, or Türk Telekom. Starlink is now available in Turkey and has become popular in rural areas and smaller coastal towns where fiber has not yet reached.

Coworking spaces have multiplied across Istanbul. The major options include Workinton (multiple locations, modern facilities, $80–$150/month), Kolektif House (creative atmosphere, popular with freelancers, $100–$180/month), and ATÖLYE (design-focused, housed in the bomontiada complex). Kadıköy and Cihangir have the highest concentration of nomad-friendly cafes and coworking spaces. İzmir and Antalya have growing coworking scenes, though options are still more limited.

Café culture as work infrastructure. Unlike many cities where working from cafes is barely tolerated, Istanbul’s café culture actively supports it. Many third-wave coffee shops in Kadıköy, Cihangir, and Karaköy have power outlets at every table, fast Wi-Fi, and an unspoken policy of letting laptop workers stay as long as they keep ordering. A specialty coffee costs $2–$3. The cost-to-quality ratio for a café-as-office lifestyle is essentially unbeatable globally.

Outside Istanbul, internet quality is improving but variable. Antalya, İzmir, Ankara, and Bursa all have 50–100+ Mbps connections. Smaller cities and rural areas may have slower speeds (10–30 Mbps), but 4G mobile coverage is extensive. For reliable remote work, stick to provincial capitals or larger cities — and always have a mobile data backup plan.

Community. The digital nomad community in Istanbul is active and growing. Meetup groups, co-living spaces, and informal networking events are common, particularly in Kadıköy and Cihangir. The international population skews toward Europeans, Americans, and increasingly Latin Americans and Southeast Asians attracted by the same value proposition.

Language and Culture

Living in Turkey is not the same as visiting Turkey. Here is what daily life actually looks like once the honeymoon period fades.

Learning Turkish. Turkish is a logical, agglutinative language with no gendered nouns and almost perfectly phonetic spelling. It is easier to learn than Arabic, Mandarin, or Japanese, but harder than Spanish or Italian for English speakers. Basic Turkish dramatically improves your quality of life — many shopkeepers, taxi drivers, landlords, and government officials outside tourist zones speak little or no English. Learning even a few phrases earns genuine warmth and appreciation from locals. Language courses are widely available and affordable ($100–$300 for a multi-week group course at institutions like TÖMER). Istanbul’s international neighborhoods and Antalya’s tourist zones are the exceptions where English gets you by.

Çay (tea) culture. Tea is the social glue of Turkey. It is offered everywhere — at shops, banks, car repair garages, and in virtually every social interaction. Accepting çay is a sign of goodwill. It is served in small tulip-shaped glasses, always black, usually with two sugar cubes on the side. You will drink more tea in a month in Turkey than in a year anywhere else. This is not trivial — the tea ritual is the foundation of social and business relationships.

Hospitality (misafirperverlik). Turkish hospitality is legendary and genuine. Offers of çay from shopkeepers, neighbors, and complete strangers are constant. Being invited to dinner at someone’s home after knowing them for 30 minutes is entirely normal. The culture places enormous value on guest relationships — this is a core cultural concept, not a tourist performance.

Work-life balance. Turkey has a distinct rhythm. Meals are long, socializing happens outdoors, and the concept of “acele yok” (no rush) permeates daily life in most situations. Evenings are spent at cafés, restaurants, or walking along waterfronts. The line between work and social life is more blurred than in Northern European or American culture — business relationships are built over meals and tea, not PowerPoint presentations.

Islam as cultural backdrop. Turkey is a Muslim-majority country, though it is constitutionally secular and significantly more liberal than most Muslim-majority nations. In cosmopolitan areas of Istanbul, İzmir, and Antalya, the culture feels distinctly secular — you will see bars, clubs, and liberal dress codes. During Ramadan, many Turks fast from sunrise to sunset. In conservative neighborhoods, eating publicly during fasting hours can be seen as disrespectful. In cosmopolitan areas, restaurants remain open and non-Muslims eating is entirely normal. Understanding this secular-conservative spectrum is important when choosing where to live.

Food culture. Turkish food deserves its own article. The breakfast culture is extraordinary — a Turkish kahvaltı (breakfast spread) at a neighborhood café costs $4–$8 and includes dozens of small dishes: cheeses (at least four or five varieties), olives, honey with kaymak (clotted cream), menemen (scrambled eggs with tomatoes and peppers), börek (flaky pastry), sucuk (spiced sausage), fresh bread, and unlimited çay. You have not had breakfast until you have had a Turkish breakfast.

Beyond breakfast: the kebab diversity goes far beyond the Western stereotype. Adana kebab (spicy minced meat), İskender (over bread with yogurt and tomato sauce), Urfa (mild minced meat), beyti (wrapped in lavash) — every region has its own specialty. Street food is ubiquitous and excellent: simit (sesame bread rings), döner, lahmacun (thin-crust minced meat pizza), balık ekmek (fish sandwiches by the Galata Bridge), and midye dolma (stuffed mussels). The meze culture — small dishes shared with rakı (anise spirit) at a meyhane — is one of the world’s great dining traditions. And baklava from Gaziantep is, without exaggeration, transcendent.

Turkish bureaucracy. Be prepared. Government offices (nüfus müdürlüĝü, vergi dairesi, göç idaresi) typically involve queues, paperwork, and multiple visits. Bring every document you might need, plus photocopies. Bring a Turkish-speaking friend if possible. The process is rarely hostile — it is just slow. Online government services (e-Devlet) have improved dramatically and can handle many tasks, but initial registrations typically require in-person visits.

Climate: Four Countries in One

Turkey’s climate varies dramatically by region, which is one of its underappreciated advantages. You can choose your climate based on where you settle.

Mediterranean coast (Antalya, Fethiye, Mersin): Hot, dry summers (35–40°C / 95–104°F from June to September) and mild, wet winters (10–15°C / 50–59°F). 300+ days of sunshine. This is classic Mediterranean climate at its best — beach weather for eight months of the year, with comfortable winters that rarely require more than a light jacket.

Aegean coast (İzmir, Bodrum, Çeşme): Similar to the Mediterranean coast but slightly less extreme. Summers are hot but tempered by Aegean breezes (30–35°C / 86–95°F). Winters are mild (8–13°C / 46–55°F) with more rainfall than Antalya. Many consider the Aegean coast to have Turkey’s most pleasant year-round climate.

Istanbul (transitional): Four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid (28–33°C / 82–91°F). Winters are cold, gray, and wet (3–8°C / 37–46°F), with occasional snow. Spring and autumn are beautiful. Istanbul’s winter is the biggest surprise for newcomers who associate Turkey with perpetual sunshine — January and February can feel genuinely cold and damp. Heating costs spike in winter.

Central Anatolia (Ankara, Cappadocia): Continental climate with hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Ankara temperatures can drop below -10°C (14°F) in January and exceed 35°C (95°F) in July. Cappadocia is similar — stunning in autumn and spring, harshly cold in winter.

Eastern Turkey: Harsh continental to subarctic conditions. Winters in cities like Erzurum and Kars see temperatures well below -20°C (-4°F). This is not typical expat territory.

Bottom line: For the best year-round climate, choose the Aegean or Mediterranean coast. If you want a major city, accept that Istanbul has real winters.

Safety Considerations

Turkey is generally safe for expats and tourists. Istanbul’s safety profile is comparable to any major European city — petty theft (pickpocketing, bag-snatching) exists in tourist-heavy areas like Sultanahmet, Taksim, and the Grand Bazaar, but violent crime targeting foreigners is rare. Walking alone at night in most residential neighborhoods feels safe, including for women in secular areas like Kadıköy, Cihangir, and Beşiktaş.

Key safety considerations:

• Earthquakes: This is the most significant safety concern. Turkey sits on major fault lines. The devastating February 2023 earthquakes in southeastern Turkey killed over 50,000 people and displaced millions. Istanbul has been warned about a major earthquake for decades — seismologists consider it overdue for a significant event on the North Anatolian Fault. If you live in Istanbul, choose newer buildings constructed to modern seismic codes (post-2000 construction, ideally post-2007 when codes were tightened). Keep an emergency kit with water, food, flashlight, and documents. This is not hypothetical — earthquake preparedness is a real and ongoing concern.
• Eastern Turkey: The southeastern provinces near the Syrian and Iraqi borders have different security considerations. Most Western governments advise against travel to areas within 10 kilometers of the Syrian border. This does not affect Istanbul, Antalya, İzmir, Bodrum, or any of the typical expat destinations.
• Political protests: Large-scale protests occur occasionally, particularly in Istanbul and Ankara. These are generally avoidable and rarely affect daily expat life. Avoid Taksim Square and İstiklal Avenue if demonstrations are announced.
• Scams: The classic Istanbul scam involves a friendly local inviting you to a bar, where you are presented with an enormous bill. This targets solo male tourists in the Sultanahmet/Taksim area. It is easily avoided once you are aware of it. Taxi scams (rigged meters, scenic routes) are common — use ride-hailing apps like BiTaksi instead.
• Traffic: Istanbul traffic is notoriously dangerous. Driving culture is aggressive, and pedestrian crossings are frequently ignored. Use public transport where possible and be extremely cautious as a pedestrian. Antalya and İzmir are significantly calmer.

Overall, Turkey’s safety level should not deter you from moving here. Millions of expats and tourists live and travel in Turkey safely every year. Standard urban awareness applies — and take earthquake preparedness seriously.

Turkey vs. Greece: Mediterranean Neighbors Compared

Turkey and Greece are the two most popular Mediterranean destinations for budget-conscious expats, and they make a natural comparison. Both offer stunning coastlines, rich history, incredible food, and warm cultures. But the differences are significant — particularly in cost, visa accessibility, and lifestyle.

The verdict: Turkey wins decisively on affordability — it is roughly 30–50% cheaper than Greece across the board. Greece wins on visa clarity (dedicated digital nomad visa with tax benefits), EU membership (freedom of movement within the Schengen zone), and currency stability. If your primary driver is maximum value per dollar, Turkey is hard to beat. If you want a structured visa framework and EU access, Greece has the edge. Both are excellent choices — and at a three-hour flight or overnight ferry apart, you can easily explore both before deciding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work remotely in Turkey on a tourist visa?

Technically, a tourist visa does not authorize work of any kind. In practice, many digital nomads work remotely in Turkey on tourist visas or short-term residence permits without issues, as long as they are not invoicing Turkish clients or using Turkish corporate structures. Turkey does not currently have a dedicated digital nomad visa, though there have been discussions about introducing one. For stays longer than 90 days, a short-term residence permit is the recommended legal pathway.

Is Turkey safe for solo female expats?

Generally yes, with caveats. Istanbul’s secular neighborhoods (Kadıköy, Cihangir, Beşiktaş, Nişantaşı) are comparable to any European city. Street harassment can occur, particularly in conservative areas and tourist zones. Using standard precautions — avoiding deserted streets at night, being firm with unwanted attention — is advisable. Many solo female expats live happily in Istanbul and the coastal cities. İzmir is widely considered the most comfortable city for women in Turkey.

How hard is it to open a bank account?

Straightforward once you have a tax number (vergi numarası), which you can obtain at any tax office with your passport. Major banks include Ziraat Bankası, İş Bankası, Garanti BBVA, and Yapı Kredi. Some banks require a residence permit; others will open an account for non-residents. Bring your passport, tax number, and a Turkish phone number. Wise and Revolut are popular alternatives for expats who want to hold lira without a Turkish bank account.

What is the internet like outside Istanbul?

Fiber internet is expanding rapidly across Turkey. Antalya, İzmir, Ankara, and Bursa all have 50–100+ Mbps connections available. Smaller cities and rural areas may have slower speeds (10–30 Mbps), but 4G mobile coverage is extensive. Starlink is available for areas without fiber coverage. For reliable remote work, stick to provincial capitals or larger cities — and always have a mobile data backup plan.

Can I bring my pet to Turkey?

Yes. Turkey requires a valid rabies vaccination (at least 21 days before arrival), a microchip, and an international health certificate from a licensed veterinarian. There is no mandatory quarantine. Turkey is quite pet-friendly — street cats and dogs are cared for communally and are a beloved part of Turkish culture. Istanbul is famously a “city of cats.” Vet care is affordable ($15–$30 for a standard consultation).

What about the political situation?

Turkey is a presidential republic with a complex political landscape. The political environment should not deter expats from moving here, but it is worth understanding. Media freedom is limited compared to Western standards. VPN use is common (some social media platforms have been intermittently blocked — Wikipedia was blocked for several years). Day-to-day expat life is largely unaffected by politics, but it is a factor to weigh if you are considering long-term settlement vs. a temporary base.

Should I be worried about earthquakes in Istanbul?

Yes, this is a legitimate concern that deserves honest discussion. Seismologists have warned for years that Istanbul is overdue for a major earthquake on the North Anatolian Fault. The 2023 southeastern Turkey earthquake was a tragic reminder of the risk. Practical steps: choose newer buildings (post-2007 construction codes), keep an emergency kit, familiarize yourself with evacuation routes, and consider earthquake insurance (DASK is mandatory for property owners). Many millions of people live in Istanbul safely — but preparedness is not optional.

How does Turkey compare to Southeast Asia for digital nomads?

Turkey and Southeast Asian hubs like Thailand, Bali, and Vietnam compete in the same price bracket. Turkey’s advantages: closer to Europe (3-hour flights), better time zone overlap with European/US East Coast clients, world-class food culture, and more cosmopolitan city infrastructure. Southeast Asia’s advantages: dedicated digital nomad visas (Thailand, Indonesia), more established nomad communities, tropical climate year-round, and arguably easier bureaucracy. Both are excellent options — the choice often comes down to climate preference and professional time zones.

Is Turkey Right for You?

Turkey is an extraordinary destination, but it is not for everyone. Here is an honest assessment.

Turkey is ideal for:

• Digital nomads and remote workers earning in USD, EUR, or GBP who want maximum quality of life per dollar spent — Turkey offers perhaps the best value of any major destination on Earth
• Retirees with pension or passive income seeking warm weather, excellent healthcare, and very low costs
• People who love food, history, and cultural depth — Turkey delivers on all three at an extraordinary level
• Real estate investors looking at citizenship by investment with a $400,000 threshold and fast processing
• Anyone who values strategic geographic positioning between Europe, the Middle East, and Asia
• Medical tourists seeking world-class procedures at a fraction of Western costs

Turkey may not be ideal for:

• People who need a clear, established digital nomad visa framework — Turkey’s legal structure for remote workers is ambiguous compared to Greece or Portugal
• Those uncomfortable with economic volatility — the lira’s instability benefits foreign earners but creates pricing uncertainty
• Expats who expect Western European-level bureaucratic efficiency — Turkish paperwork requires patience and persistence
• Anyone who needs seamless English everywhere — outside tourist areas and international neighborhoods, Turkish is essential
• People with significant earthquake anxiety — Istanbul is in a high seismic risk zone and this is a real, ongoing concern
• Those seeking EU membership benefits — Turkey is not in the EU, which limits freedom of movement to other European countries

Your Next Steps

Moving to Turkey is one of the highest-value decisions you can make as a location-independent professional or retiree. The combination of low costs, world-class food, rich culture, excellent healthcare, and strategic location is hard to match anywhere else. Here is how to move from reading to action:

• Explore Turkey’s country profile — real-time data on cost, safety, healthcare, visas, and more.
• Compare Turkey head-to-head — put Turkey against Portugal, Greece, Thailand, or any other destination on the metrics that matter to you.
• Take the WhereNext quiz — 2 minutes to get a personalized country ranking based on your priorities.
• Do a trial run — spend 1–3 months in Turkey before committing. Rent short-term in Kadıköy or Cihangir, explore neighborhoods, test the internet, and experience the lifestyle. The 90-day tourist visa makes this easy.

If you are weighing Turkey against other popular expat hubs, explore our Complete Guide to Moving to Greece for the closest Mediterranean alternative, or browse our cheapest countries to live ranking for global options.

The data says Turkey is one of the best-value destinations in the world for expats. The question is whether it is the right fit for you. Start with the numbers, factor in your non-negotiables, and go experience it firsthand. The çay is waiting.