Your Expat Community in Istanbul

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).

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.