Guide

Life in Turkey

A short city-by-city overview for members considering a move to Turkey: lifestyle, realistic cost ranges for 2026 and the strength of the Slavic community. Figures are approximate ranges based on a mid-range lifestyle.

Experience notes coming soon, from members already living in Turkey.

Istanbul

A metropolis of 16 million spanning two continents; the widest choice of jobs, international schools and social life. The pace is fast and distances are long.

  • Rent: 25,000 - 60,000 TL (1+1 / 2+1, varies greatly by district)
  • Monthly expenses: 20,000 - 35,000 TL (excluding rent, per person)

Slavic community: Strong Slavic community: a large Russian-speaking community, associations, shops and an Orthodox church.

Ankara

The capital; calm, planned and safe. Government institutions, universities and embassies define the city's character. More affordable than Istanbul.

  • Rent: 15,000 - 30,000 TL
  • Monthly expenses: 15,000 - 25,000 TL (excluding rent, per person)

Slavic community: Mid-sized Slavic community: Russian/Ukrainian-speaking groups around the embassies and universities.

Izmir

The largest city on the Aegean; known for its seaside, secular and relaxed lifestyle. The climate is mild and social life flows along the waterfront.

  • Rent: 18,000 - 35,000 TL
  • Monthly expenses: 16,000 - 26,000 TL (excluding rent, per person)

Slavic community: Growing Slavic community: Russian-speaking families who moved in recent years and online communities are active.

Antalya

The tourism capital on the Mediterranean coast; long summers, beaches and foreigner-friendly infrastructure. The city where Russian signs and services are most common.

  • Rent: 20,000 - 40,000 TL (Konyaalti/Lara higher)
  • Monthly expenses: 16,000 - 28,000 TL (excluding rent, per person)

Slavic community: Turkey's strongest Slavic community: tens of thousands of Russian-speaking residents, Russian schools, shops and community events.

Bursa

The first Ottoman capital; 2 hours from Istanbul, a green industrial city at the foot of Mount Uludag. A calm and economical option for family life.

  • Rent: 13,000 - 25,000 TL
  • Monthly expenses: 14,000 - 22,000 TL (excluding rent, per person)

Slavic community: The Slavic community is small but present; proximity to Istanbul makes community events easy to reach.

Gaziantep

The gastronomy capital of the southeast (on the UNESCO list); famous for its baklava and cuisine, with strong industry and a low cost of living.

  • Rent: 10,000 - 20,000 TL
  • Monthly expenses: 12,000 - 20,000 TL (excluding rent, per person)

Slavic community: Limited Slavic community; few Russian-speaking residents, social circles are built mostly on local connections.

Explore the cultural differences too

Read our culture bridge guide for the nuances between Turkish and Slavic cultures.

Culture bridge guide