Discover what life in Turkey is really like — cost of living, lifestyle benefits, and expat experiences in 2025.
Why Foreigners Choose to Live in Turkey
Turkey has become one of the most popular destinations for expats, entrepreneurs, and real estate investors. Its strategic location between Europe and Asia, Mediterranean climate, and affordable lifestyle make it a top choice for those looking for a new home.
Whether you are planning to retire, invest in property, or start a business, living in Turkey offers a unique blend of modern comfort and rich culture.
Cost of Living in Turkey 2025
The cost of living in Turkey is still significantly lower than in most European countries. A single person can comfortably live in Istanbul with an average budget of $900 – $1,200 per month, including rent, food, and transportation.
In smaller cities like Antalya or Bursa, monthly costs drop to around $600 – $800.
Average monthly expenses (2025):
1-Bedroom apartment rent: $400 – $700 depending on area
Utilities and internet: $100 – $150
Groceries and food: $250 – $350
Transportation card (Istanbul): $35 – $50
💡 Pro tip: When buying property, you can also apply for a residence permit through ownership (see: permanent residence in Turkey).
Pros of Living in Turkey for Foreigners
✅ Affordable Lifestyle – You can enjoy a Mediterranean standard of living at half the cost of most European cities.
✅ Turkish Citizenship by Investment – Buy real estate worth $400,000 to qualify for citizenship.
✅ Friendly Locals & Culture – Turkish hospitality is world-famous; foreigners feel welcome everywhere.
✅ Modern Healthcare – Private hospitals offer excellent medical care at affordable prices.
✅ Easy Accessibility – Direct flights connect Istanbul to over 250 destinations worldwide.
Cons and Challenges
⚠️ Language Barrier: Learning basic Turkish helps with daily life and bureaucracy.
⚠️ Currency Fluctuation: Exchange rates can affect foreign salaries or savings.
⚠️ Bureaucratic Process: Legal paperwork for residency and property purchase may be slow.
⚠️ Traffic in Major Cities: Istanbul is beautiful but crowded — use metro or BRT lines.
Best Cities to Live in Turkey
🏙️ Istanbul – Business & investment hub, cultural capital.
🌊 Antalya – Coastal city with sunshine 300 days a year.
🌲 Bursa – Affordable family-friendly city near Istanbul.
🏡 Izmir – Modern Mediterranean city with laid-back lifestyle.
💬 Tip: Use internal links to your listings like “apartments for sale in Istanbul” and “villas in Antalya”.
Turkish Citizenship & Residence Options
Foreigners who purchase property worth $400,000 qualify for Turkish Citizenship by Investment. Alternatively, renting or owning a home for 12 months can qualify you for a renewable residence permit.
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FAQ Section
Q1: Is it expensive to live in Turkey in 2025?
A: Not at all — Turkey remains 30–50% cheaper than most EU countries.
Q2: Can foreigners buy property and live in Turkey?
A: Yes. Owning real estate grants a residence permit and can lead to citizenship.
Q3: Which city in Turkey is best for expats?
A: Istanbul for business opportunities; Antalya and Izmir for retirement and coastal living.
