- Sven Baudach
My business partners, also mainly expats, and me, we always use the wonderful InterNations Events as an informal get-togethers.
Living in Istanbul as an expat: Let’s make it home
Merhaba and welcome to Istanbul! Expats from all over the world are drawn to this incredible city. Istanbul never stands still: Colorful bazaars, stunning mosques, and endless cups of tea create an atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else.
But what about adapting to daily life? To help you settle in, we’ve gathered insights from expats who’ve already found their rhythm here. Below you’ll find the pros and cons of living in Istanbul. Get essential info on everything from housing to salaries, so you’ll know what to expect.
Plus, discover how you can meet internationals from all over the world eager to share their experiences. Let’s dive in!
Why you'll love InterNations in Istanbul
and countless possibilities for fun and friendship!
The pro's and cons of living in Istanbul as an expat
Istanbul is lively and full of energy — it might feel chaotic at first, but once you settle in, you’ll start to see the charm in its constant movement. To help you decide if Istanbul is the right city for you, discover what the expat community has to say. Every year, more than 12,000 expats worldwide participate in our Expat Insider survey, sharing insights on living and working abroad. Here’s a look at the main pros and cons of living in Istanbul based on the 2024 survey, along with some additional perspectives.
Pros of Living in Istanbul:
Climate & nature: About 75% of expats in Türkiye enjoy the Mediterranean climate (vs. 58% globally) — it’s neither too extreme, nor boringly predictable. Also, about 76% appreciate Istanbul’s natural environment (vs. 82% globally), with some of the best places including the Bosphorus waters, parks, and coastline views.
Affordable travel & transit: Türkiye ranks 27th out of 53 destinations in the Travel & Transit Index. Istanbul’s transit system is extensive, with ferries, trams, metros, buses, and even cable cars making it easy to get around. Plus, where else can you cross between continents (Asia and Europe) for just a few lira? For travelers, Istanbul’s location is a dream — it’s super easy to take day trips or weekend escapes to nearby regions without spending much.
Cultural experience: Istanbul is a city where the past and present live side by side. You will see iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar. The food culture is also amazing — you’ll find exciting new dishes to try every week. The mix of East and West creates a unique energy you won’t find anywhere else.
The people: One of the best parts of living in Istanbul is the people. Turks are famously warm and hospitable, always ready to help, share food, or solve a problem over a cup of tea — which explains why Türkiye is one of the most tea-loving countries in the world. Don’t be surprised if locals call you “brother” or “sister” — it’s just how they connect. Istanbul also has a unique love for cats; they roam freely through neighborhoods and shops and are treated like cherished residents.
Turkish cuisine: Istanbul is paradise for food lovers. A traditional Turkish breakfast — with fresh bread, cheeses, olives, eggs, and jams — is a delicious start to the day. Börek, a flaky pastry filled with cheese or meat, is another popular option. Istanbul’s popular street markets are full of fresh produce, fragrant herbs, pastries, and, of course, tea! Meat dishes like köfte (meatballs) and kebap (roasted meats) are a must-try, and desserts like baklava, lokum, and künefe will have you hooked.
Cons of Living in Istanbul
Political stability & economy: This is one of Istanbul’s weak points, with Türkiye ranking 53rd — the worst ranking of any destination — for both political stability and for the state of the economy in our survey. Around 64% of expats in Türkiye view the economy negatively, which is much higher than the global average of 19%. Issues like inflation and currency fluctuations can make managing finances tricky, especially if you’re living on a fixed income.
Career opportunities: If you’re moving to Istanbul for work, it might not be the easiest transition. Istanbul ranks dead last (53rd) in the Working Abroad Index. About 34% of expats in Türkiye feel their career prospects haven’t improved since moving here, and many struggle with job security and work-life balance. So, it might not be the best place for advancing your professional career.
Language barrier: Turkish is not the easiest language to learn, and that can be a challenge for expats. About 53% of expats say they find learning the language difficult, and 57% say they struggle to get by without speaking it. English is spoken in some tourist areas and by younger locals, but you will definitely hit language barriers when dealing with things like government offices, markets, or local shops. So, learning some basic Turkish can make a huge difference, but it does require effort.
Street cleanliness: Many areas in the city struggle with litter due to a lack of garbage bins. It’s common to see trash left on the streets, especially in busier or more crowded districts. The city’s rapid growth and dense population sometimes make it hard to manage waste effectively. Efforts are being made to improve the situation, but for now, this is something you’ll notice, especially in less touristy areas.
Infrastructure and traffic: Istanbul’s infrastructure doesn’t always keep up with its size and population. In some neighborhoods, pedestrian zones and sidewalks are narrow or poorly maintained, making it tricky to get around on foot. Traffic is another major issue — drivers can be aggressive. The “style” of driving, paired with crowded streets, often makes rush hour a stressful experience. If you’re driving, patience is essential, and if you’re walking, staying alert is key.
Meet expats at fun events in Istanbul
Living in a new place can feel overwhelming at first - especially if you don’t know many people - but that’s where we come in! InterNations events are designed to help you meet fellow expats. From music nights and cultural tours to exploring the city's hidden spots, experience the best of Istanbul while connecting with people from all over the world. Our hosts are ready to welcome you and introduce you to the community.
Want to see all the upcoming events in Istanbul?
Frequently asked questions about expat life in Istanbul
Get answers to your most pressing questions about moving to Istanbul. From pre-move knowledge about visas to day-to-day essentials like healthcare, safety, and accommodation, we cover it all. And we even have tips on how to make friends!
It really depends on what you’re after. The city has nonstop energy — it's lively and there’s constant movement, which some people love. But if you’re after peace and quiet, it might not be your thing. The culture and nature here are amazing, and life is pretty affordable, though that can vary depending on where you’re moving from. The job market can be a bit tricky since many jobs need you to speak Turkish. And let’s be honest, it’s not the easiest language to learn! But if you’re up for putting in the time to get the hang of it, you’ll definitely get rewarded.
Living in Türkiye as a foreigner can have its challenges. The language barrier is a big one — Turkish is tough to learn, and many locals don’t speak fluent English, especially outside tourist areas. However, once you get used to the rhythm of life, the warmth and hospitality of the people make it easier to adapt. Bureaucracy can also be a bit tricky, but many expats manage just fine with a little patience.
People move to Istanbul because it’s such a unique mix of cultures.
You’ve got this awesome blend of Asian and European vibes in everything, from the food to the buildings. It’s like you’re walking through Central Asia, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean all at once.
The city feels both ancient and modern at the same time, and the sights are stunning — like watching the Hagia Sophia at sunset or seeing the Blue Mosque light up at night. Plus, the food is incredible and super affordable! There’s also so much history, with ancient ruins and over 3,000 mosques, and the art scene is amazing too.
Istanbul has its fair share of problems. Traffic is a big one, and getting around can be a nightmare, especially during rush hour. The city can feel overcrowded at times, and finding a peaceful spot isn’t always easy. Some neighborhoods could definitely use better infrastructure, and cleanliness is an issue in certain areas with litter being pretty common. Other problems are economic instability and inflation.
If you’re planning to move to Istanbul for work, study, or any other long-term reason, you’ll need to apply for a visa through a Turkish Embassy or Consulate before arriving. When you have the appropriate visa, you can then apply for a residence permit once you're in Türkiye. Be sure to check with the Turkish Embassy or Consulate in your country for the specific visa requirements based on your purpose of stay.
A “good” salary in Istanbul depends on your lifestyle. But to live comfortably, a monthly income of around 1,200–1,500 USD is considered decent for a single person. This would cover rent, groceries, transportation, and a bit of leisure. If you’re living more luxuriously or have dependents, you will need more.
The following table provides a rough overview of the standard living expenses you can expect. Of course, many items on the list depend on your individual circumstances (e.g. the cost of public health insurance depends on your salary) or preferences (e.g. you can spend less on groceries, but also a lot more).
| USD per month | Local currency per month | |
1-bedroom (outside of city center) | 580 USD | 20,500 TRY |
3-bedroom | 1,000 USD | 36,000 TRY |
Utilities | 60 USD | 2,200 TRY |
Mobile phone & internet | 25 USD | 850 TRY |
Fitness (Gym) | 50 USD | 2,000 TRY |
Public transport | 43 USD | 1,500 TRY |
Groceries | 100-150 USD | 2,000-3,000 TRY |
Meal at a restaurant | 12 USD | 400 TRY |
To find a place to live in Istanbul, you can start by searching on websites like Sahibinden, Zingat, or Hepsi Emlak. Real estate agents can also help, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the city. Rental costs vary depending on the area and the size of the apartment. On average, you can expect to pay around 700–1300 USD for a one-bedroom apartment in a central area, but more affordable options exist in less central neighborhoods.
Some of the neighborhoods expats like living in are:
Kadıköy – A lively area on the Asian side, popular for its cultural vibe, markets, and cafés.
Beyoğlu – Known for its historic charm, nightlife, and proximity to Taksim Square.
Nişantaşı – A high-end European-side neighborhood, ideal for shopping and upscale living.
Moda – A trendy, laid-back district on the Asian side, great for families and creatives.
Levent – A modern business hub with excellent transport links and residential areas.
Cihangir – A bohemian neighborhood loved by artists and expats, close to the heart of the city.
Türkiye offers both public and private healthcare. Public healthcare is affordable, and residents can access it with the Turkish healthcare system (SGK) once registered. However, many expats prefer private healthcare for shorter waiting times and better service. If you’re planning to stay long-term, you should register for the SGK once you have a residence permit. Private health insurance is also widely available.
You can see more information here: OmranTRK
Yes, speaking Turkish is definitely helpful in Istanbul. You can manage in touristy areas or with younger people who speak some English, but knowing Turkish is essential for the long term. It helps with daily tasks and making local connections.
Istanbul is generally safe for locals and tourists, but like any large city, there are areas where you should stay cautious. Petty theft (like pickpocketing) can happen, especially in crowded places like markets or on public transport. Avoiding isolated areas late at night and staying aware of your surroundings is always a good idea.
You can attend events at cultural centers or try out activities you may find through different organizations, like group workouts, art classes, or language exchanges. Coffee shops, local restaurants, and parks are perfect spots to strike up conversations too. Turkish people are generally open and friendly. And areas like Cihangir and Kadıköy are known as vibrant, expat-friendly places.
InterNations is a trusted community for internationals in Istanbul. It’s great if you want to connect with fellow expats through events or groups based on your interests.
Connect with Like-Minded Expatriates in Istanbul
Meet other expats like you in Istanbul
Our Global Partners
Pursue your hobbies with amazing new friends
Moving to a new country doesn’t mean you have to give up the hobbies you love - in fact, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore them even more! That’s what InterNations Groups are all about. Whether you’re into cooking, fitness, art, or learning new languages, there’s a group for you in Istanbul. Join a Turkish conversation group, find a running buddy, try out a street food club, or connect with people who love music and theater as much as you do. Whatever you’re passionate about, you’ll find like-minded people to share it with in our groups!
Share your hobbies and interests with expats in Istanbul
Join our global network of people living abroad
InterNations is the largest global network for expatriates, with communities in 510 cities around the world. Meet fellow global minds in your city of residence or get to know local expatriates before you're moving or traveling abroad and never feel like a stranger. InterNations makes it easy for you to stay in touch with your expat friends, both online and offline, so you can grow your network of friends and contacts from all over the world. Whether they live in Abu Dhabi or Beijing, InterNations allows you to be close to them even if they are miles away.
- Sven Baudach
My business partners, also mainly expats, and me, we always use the wonderful InterNations Events as an informal get-togethers.
- Maggy Roswick
With all the great information and contacts provided by InterNations, it was no big deal to get settled in Istanbul.
