Moving to Turkey
Last updated on Oct 13, 2023
Summary: Many expats and digital nomads move to Turkey for its low cost of living, warm climate, and rich culture. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Turkey are Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. People looking for a place to live in Turkey can search online for rental listings, contact real estate agents, or look for postings on expat forums. Additionally, many expats and digital nomads find housing through word of mouth from other expats and digital nomads already living in Turkey.
What do I need to know before moving to Turkey?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Turkey, they said:
"It is important to research the local culture and customs before moving to Turkey. It is also important to learn some basic Turkish phrases to help with communication. Expats should also be aware of the cost of living in Turkey, as it can be higher than in some other countries. Additionally, expats should be aware of the visa requirements for entering and staying in Turkey. It is also important to research the healthcare system in Turkey and to make sure that you have adequate health insurance coverage. Finally, expats should be aware of the political situation in Turkey and the potential for civil unrest," replied a member in Turkey.
"I absolutely recommend contacting a specialist company, as we did. They made the whole process of finding a home, moving and settling in a fun process - rather than a stressful experience," commented one expat who made the move to Istanbul.
How do I find a place to live in Turkey?
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
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- What are the schools in Turkey like?
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- Is the cost of living in Turkey high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Turkey?
- What is the weather like in Turkey?
- Are there good restaurants in Turkey?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Turkey?
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- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Turkey?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?