Finding the Perfect Place to Live in Turkey: A Friendly Guide for Foreigners

Moving to a new country is exciting—but let’s be honest, it can also be overwhelming! As someone who’s fallen in love with the warmth, culture, and beauty of Turkey, I want to help make your journey smoother. If you’re considering moving to Turkey and wondering how to find the perfect place to live, this guide is for you.

Let’s walk through it step by step.

Step 1: Know What You’re Looking For

Prior to proceeding, ask yourself these important questions:

• Which would you prefer—a bustling, contemporary city or a peaceful, quiet town?
• Which would you prefer—a cultural center, the mountains, or the sea?
• Are you studying, working from home, or retiring?

This will assist you in reducing the number of possibilities. There is something for everyone in Turkey because of its diversity!

Step 2: Explore Popular Places to Live

Here are some of the most popular cities among foreigners:

İstanbul

Vibrant, multicultural, full of history. Great for work and social life, but traffic can be a challenge.

If you want to feel alive 24/7, Istanbul is your city. It’s where Europe meets Asia, history meets modernity, and cultures blend like nowhere else. You’ll find art galleries, rooftop cafés, bazaars, and high-end malls—all in one day.

• Great for: creatives, young professionals, city lovers
• Downsides: heavy traffic, higher cost of living
• Expats: large, diverse, and well-connected community

Istanbul is not just a city—it’s an experience.

İzmir

Laid-back coastal city with a Mediterranean vibe. Friendly and less crowded than Istanbul. Izmir is often called the most relaxed big city in Turkey. It has a strong local culture but feels welcoming to newcomers. You’ll enjoy wide streets, palm-lined promenades, and a deep blue sea.

• Great for: students, families, digital nomads
• Vibe: youthful, liberal, and artsy
• Bonus: weekend trips to Çeşme or Alaçatı? Yes, please!

If you want coastal charm without losing modern comforts, Izmir is perfect.

Antalya

Beach paradise! Perfect for those who love sun, sea, and a more relaxed lifestyle. Want to wake up with the sound of the waves and have fresh oranges for breakfast? Welcome to Antalya. It’s a tourist hotspot, but also a peaceful home for many expats.

• Great for: remote workers, retirees, couples
• Cost: more affordable than Istanbul
• Vibe: relaxed, nature-focused, very sunny 

Plus, English is widely spoken here, thanks to tourism.

Ankara

The capital, more affordable and quieter than Istanbul. Great for professionals and families. Ankara doesn’t get much attention from tourists, but it’s a favorite among locals who love a stable, quiet lifestyle. As the capital city, it’s organized, clean, and less chaotic.

• Great for: government workers, academics, families
• Vibe: serious but safe
• Cost: more affordable than Istanbul and Izmir

If you're not into the tourist buzz and love structure, Ankara might surprise you.

Bodrum / Fethiye / Alanya

Popular with expats and retirees. Beautiful nature and a slower pace of life.

Bodrum is where artists, musicians, and yacht owners hang out. With its white-washed houses and blue accents, it feels like a dream.

• Great for: part-time residents, creatives, beach lovers
• Downsides: expensive in summer, quieter in winter
• Bonus: sunsets you’ll never forget 

It’s like a postcard—just more expensive.

Step 3: Consider Your Budget

The cost of living varies by neighborhood and city. Here are some pointers:

Istanbul and other touristic cities have higher rents.

Suburban areas and smaller towns are more reasonably priced.

In general, transportation, groceries, and utilities are less expensive than in many Western nations.

Pro Tip: Before signing a rental agreement, always check local websites like Sahibinden or speak with locals. Sometimes, prices are exaggerated for outsiders.

Step 4: Paperwork & Legal Stuff

To live in Turkey legally, you’ll need a residence permit. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• You need to apply through the Göç İdaresi (Migration Office).
• Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months.
• Have health insurance (private or state).
• Prepare documents like rental contracts, photos, and financial proof.

Pro Tip: Hire a local consultant (“ikamet danışmanı”) if you need help. It can save you time and stress!

Step 5: Finding a Place to Live

Here's how to look for a new residence:

• Make use of reliable websites like as EmlakJet, Hurriyetemlak, and Sahibinden.com.
• Good leads are frequently found in Facebook expat communities.
• In order to explore communities, start by looking at short-term rentals (such as Airbnb).

When you visit apartments, make sure to:

• Is the place peaceful and safe?
• Is there public transportation in the area?
• Are hospitals, supermarkets, and other establishments nearby?

Step 6: Blend In and Build a Life

Moving is just the beginning—building a life is the next adventure!

• Learn some basic Turkish: Even a few words go a long way.
• Join local classes, sports clubs, or expat groups.
• Try Turkish food, join local events, and explore markets.
• Respect cultural differences and be open-minded.

Turkish people are incredibly warm and welcoming—don’t be surprised if your neighbor invites you for tea!

Final Thoughts from Me

Living in Turkey is a beautiful, enriching experience. Yes, there may be cultural surprises and some paperwork to deal with, but it’s all worth it. With a bit of patience, curiosity, and kindness, you’ll soon feel right at home.

So pack your bags and take the leap—Turkey is waiting for you! 

If you ever need more tips or have questions, feel free to reach out or leave a comment. I’m always happy to help fellow travelers.