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Istanbul, Turkey

Pros and Cons of Living in Istanbul

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Apr 22, 2023

Summary: The pros of living in Istanbul, Turkey include its vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse population. The city is also home to a wide variety of attractions, from the iconic Hagia Sophia to the bustling Grand Bazaar. Additionally, Istanbul is a major transportation hub, making it easy to travel to other parts of the country and beyond. The cons of living in Istanbul include its high cost of living, traffic congestion, and air pollution. The city is also prone to earthquakes, and the political situation in Turkey can be unstable at times. Additionally, the city can be quite crowded, making it difficult to find a quiet place to relax.

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What are the pros and cons of living in Istanbul?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Istanbul responded:

"Expats and digital nomads generally like the rich history and culture of Istanbul, with its stunning architecture, such as the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. They appreciate the city's unique blend of European and Asian influences, which is evident in its food, art, and lifestyle. The cost of living in Istanbul is relatively low compared to other major cities, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads. The city also offers a vibrant nightlife, with a wide variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. The public transportation system in Istanbul is extensive and affordable, making it easy for expats and digital nomads to get around the city. The locals are known to be friendly and hospitable, and many speak English, making it easier for foreigners to communicate and navigate the city. However, there are also some aspects of living in Istanbul that expats and digital nomads may dislike. The traffic can be chaotic and congested, making driving in the city a stressful experience. Air pollution is also a concern, particularly during the winter months when the use of coal for heating increases. The bureaucracy in Turkey can be challenging for expats and digital nomads, with many reporting difficulties in obtaining visas, work permits, and other necessary documentation. The political situation in Turkey has been unstable in recent years, leading to occasional protests and security concerns. Lastly, while many locals speak English, the overall level of English proficiency in Istanbul is not as high as in some other European cities. This can make it more challenging for expats and digital nomads to fully integrate into the local community and access certain services, such as healthcare and banking," explained one expat living in Istanbul.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame 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.

Istanbul, Turkey

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