37 Pros and Cons of Living in Turkey as a Foreign Woman

If you’re thinking about living in Turkey, congratulations! You’re about to embark on an amazing journey.

Turkey is a land of contrasts, where East meets West and ancient tradition blends seamlessly with modern life. It’s a place where you can find some of the best food in the world, friendly locals, and stunning natural beauty.

Of course, like any country, Turkey has its pros and cons.

Having lived in Turkey as a foreign, Western woman, I can speak to some of the unique challenges (and unique benefits) of living in the country.

In this article, I’ll explore 37 of them so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not living in Turkey is right for you. We’ll look at housing costs, how easy it is to find work, and whether or not rumors of Turkish dress codes should really put Americans off moving.

Let’s dive in!

Life in Turkey

What is life in Turkey like? It’s a question I get asked a lot, usually by people who are considering making the move themselves.

To be honest, it’s tough to sum up life in Turkey in just a few sentences because it really does offer such a wide range of experiences.

In general, though, I would say that life in Turkey is…

• hectic and fast-paced, especially in big cities like Istanbul
• relatively inexpensive, especially compared to Western European countries
• full of delicious food (seriously, the Turkish cuisine is amazing!)
• quite relaxed, with a laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere
• culturally rich and diverse, with a long history and interesting traditions

Overall, I really enjoyed living in Turkey and would definitely recommend it to others.

Of course, it’s not perfect – no country is!

In a section below, we’ll explore some of the specific pros and cons of living in Turkey as a foreigner.

Cost of Living in Turkey

One of the biggest factors to consider when thinking about moving to Turkey is the cost of living.

Compared to Western European countries, Turkey is relatively inexpensive – especially big cities like Istanbul.

For example, a meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant in Istanbul will only cost around $17 USD.

Rent prices are also much lower than anywhere in America, Canada, or the UK. An average apartment in Istanbul (the most expensive city) is $1,200 USD. An apartment in a smaller city can be as low as $200 per month.

Without rent, a single person can expect to pay about $500 USD a month for living in Turkey with eating out once in a while, utilities, and public transportation costs.

This is much much lower than the average cost of living in the United States per month, which is well over $1,500 minimum before rent.

Depending on where you stay in a city like Istanbul, the cost of living will vary greatly. The Sultanahmet area, where many of the famous attractions are located, is known to be more expensive.

However, there are districts such as Kadiköy and Beyoğlu that offer a more affordable alternative. The former has plenty of restaurants and shops while the latter offers some great nightlife spots.

Ultimately, your budget will determine which neighborhood you choose to live in.

Standard of Living in Turkey

The cost of living in Turkey is relatively low, but what about the standard of living?

In general, I would say that the standard of living in Turkey is quite good – especially in big cities like Istanbul.

There are plenty of job opportunities, a wide range of housing options, and a large expat community.

The infrastructure is also quite good, with a reliable public transportation system and plenty of hospitals and schools.

Of course, the standard of living varies depending on the city you choose to live in.

In general, I would say that Istanbul is on par with other major European cities like London or Paris.

In smaller cities, the standard of living is lower but still quite good.

For example, public transportation may not be as reliable and there may be fewer international schools and hospitals.

I lived in Istanbul, so I can’t speak to all of the other cities in Turkey beyond when I visited them.

37 Pros and Cons of Living in Turkey

Pro: Low Cost of Living

As we saw in the section above, the cost of living in Turkey is relatively low – especially compared to Western European countries.

This is one of the biggest advantages of living in Turkey and is often cited as a reason why people move there.

Westerners who are digital nomads or work for international companies head to Turkey to stretch their dollar a bit further.

I was working as a freelance writer when I lived in Turkey. I made very little money at the time, as I was more focused on travelling than actually getting work done.

My highest earning month was $2,500 CAD.

I was able to live comfortably on that in Istanbul, and get to travel around the country. I even did a hot air balloon tour!

Note: The most expensive things in Turkey are alcohol, cigarettes, and petrol for your car. These can drastically increase your cost of living.

Con: Culture Shock

Moving to any new country comes with a certain amount of culture shock.

Turkey is no different.

Even though it’s a popular tourist destination, the culture is still quite different from what most Westerners are used to.

For example, Turkish people are very hospitable and welcoming. It’s not uncommon for strangers to invite you into their home for tea or dinner.

They also place a lot of importance on family and friends.

It’s not uncommon for Turks to spend hours chatting with friends and family members, even if they just saw them the day before.

If you’re not used to this level of social interaction, it can be a bit overwhelming.

I remember feeling quite overwhelmed when I first moved to Turkey. I was used to the more independent lifestyle in Canada, where people tend to keep to themselves a bit more.

It took me a while to adjust to the Turkish way of life, but I eventually grew to love it.

You’ll also need time to adjust if you do not come from a Muslim country.

While Turkey is a secular country, Islam plays a big role in the culture.

For example, you’ll need to be mindful of religious holidays and dress appropriately when visiting mosques.

You’ll also have to get used to the calls for prayer (they become very beautiful once you know to expect them).

Pro: Great Healthcare System

Turkey has a great healthcare system, especially in larger cities like Istanbul.

There are plenty of hospitals and clinics, and the quality of care is quite good.

I had to go to the hospital when I first arrived in Turkey thanks a parasite I picked up in Casablanca (don’t eat a Best Western salad y’all!).

I was able to get treatment quickly and easily, and I didn’t have any problems with the quality of care. The doctors at the American hospital all spoke perfect English.

Even getting medication from the pharmacy was easy!

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Con: Foreigners Need Private Health Insurance

If you move to Turkey, you will need to plan for healthcare.

Expats are required to buy private health insurance OR to buy a plan via the government of Turkey.

Note: Expats over 65 do not need to do this!

So why do you need health insurance in Turkey?

Turkish visas and work permits require health insurance.

So you won’t be able to work unless you have a plan.

Some countries, like France and Germany, have plans that will work in Turkey.

If you need insurance, you can either get the government plan (Sosyal Guvenlik Kurumu or SGK) or private health insurance.

SGK covers:

• Hospital and clinic care (inpatient and outpatient)
• Pregnancy related expenses
• Occupational injuries or illnesses
• Discounted care at private hospitals

Private insurance is more comprehensive and can even include pre-existing conditions like cancer or arthritis and prescriptions.

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Pro: Large Expat Communities

If you move to Turkey, you’ll be joining a large community of expats.

Istanbul alone is thought to have over 100,000 foreigners living in the city.

This means that there are plenty of resources and support systems for foreigners in Turkey.

For example, there are plenty of Facebook groups and meetups for expats in Istanbul.

I’ve even heard of people starting their own business catering to the expat community (such as an English-language book club).

It’s very easy to meet expats if you just look a tiny bit!

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Con: Language Barrier

Even though English is widely spoken in Turkey, there can still be a language barrier.

This is especially true in more rural areas or if you don’t speak the Turkish language.

I remember feeling quite lost when I first arrived in Istanbul.

I didn’t speak any Turkish, and I couldn’t read the street signs. And while people could communicate with me in English, they’d stick to the basics then move on.

It can get pretty lonely if you can’t speak the language and you don’t know anyone.

I’d suggest taking some Turkish classes before you move, even if it’s just a few basics.

It’ll make your life a lot easier!

Need help learning a new language? I recommend iTalki! I’ve tried ALL the apps, but iTalki is the only way I’ve managed to learn as much as living in the local country.

Pro: Friendly People

In general, Turks are incredibly friendly and hospitable.

They love to share their culture and food with foreigners, and they’re always happy to help if you need it.

When I was sick at my hotel, they offered to get my prescription for me, and regularly checked in to ensure I was surviving and was eating properly (and they didn’t even charge me for the rice they kept making me!).

This wasn’t some 6 star hotel – they really went above and beyond!

Con: You’ll Never Be Turkish

No matter how long you live in Turkey, you’ll never be Turkish.

You’ll always be a foreigner, an outsider. Even if you get Turkish citizenship.

This can be tough to deal with at times, but is pretty common in communities where you don’t speak the language and may look different than the locals.

I did find it hard to make local friends living in Turkey until a tour guide I had took me in and introduced me to his daughter my age.

It helped to have a local friend, but it was still clear that I wasn’t seen as “Turkish”.

Pro: Low Cost of Housing

Housing is incredibly cheap in Turkey.

If you’re looking for an apartment, you can easily find something for less than $500/month.

Of course, this will depend on the city you’re living in and the size of the apartment.

Real estate is a very popular investment option for expats, especially retirees.

Since the cost is so much lower for a lovely property, you can really extend your savings by moving to Turkey.

Con: Hard to Get Work if You’re Not Turkish

While it is possible to get work as a foreigner in Turkey, it can be quite difficult.

There are some jobs that are specifically for Turks only, and even if you do get a job, you may be paid less than a Turkish person doing the same job.

This is especially true if you’re not fluent in Turkish.

In order to get any work, you will need a work permit – which has its own challenges.

Most people I knew living in Turkey worked for foreign companies – which also meant getting paid in foreign currency that was usually valued above the lira.

Pro: Easy to Get Citizenship

If you’re looking for a place to live where you can easily get citizenship, Turkey is a great option.

Investing in property is one way to do this, and there are many foreigners who have done this successfully.

If you make a $250,000 USD + real estate investment in Turkey, you can get living and working rights just like a local, and fast track your citizenship.

It’s important to note that you need to keep the property for at least three years, but after that, you can apply for citizenship.

In America, you’d struggle to find a nice place for $250k that was in a major city or sat on a beach. Not in Turkey!

Con: Hard to Get a Work Permit

If you want to work in Turkey, you need to get a work permit.

This can be difficult, as the process is bureaucratic and time-consuming.

You’ll need to have a job offer from a Turkish company before you can apply, and even then, it can take months to hear back.

And if you’re self-employed, forget it. You’re not allowed to work in Turkey unless you have a work permit.

The good news is that once you have your work permit, it’s valid for multiple years.

However, if you work for foreign companies, you can easily work in Turkey because you don’t need this type of visa. These permits are only for physically working for a Turkish company.

Digital nomads can skip this process, which is great!

Pro: Mild Winters

If you hate cold winters, Turkey is a great place to live.

While it does snow in some parts of the country, the winters are mostly mild.

This is because Turkey is located in both the southern and eastern hemispheres, so it experiences different weather patterns than somewhere like Europe.

Even if you do get snow, it usually melts quickly because of the mild temperatures.

I arrived in snow in March, but it melted before it even touched the ground. Three days later, I was in shorts and a t-shirt walking the streets of Istanbul!

Con: Learn New Holidays

If you move to Turkey, you’ll need to learn about and celebrate new holidays.

While some are similar to what you’re used to (like New Year’s Eve), others are completely different (like Kurban Bayramı).

This can be difficult to adjust to, especially if you’re not used to celebrating holidays that are based on the lunar calendar.

But it can also be a fun way to learn about a new culture and get to know your Turkish neighbors.

One that I struggled to get used to was Ramadan.

During this month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset.

That means no food or water – not even coffee!

If you’re not Muslim, you’re not required to fast, but you may find it difficult to get food during the day.

Most restaurants and cafes are closed, and even if they’re open, people tend to give you funny looks for eating while the sun is up.

As someone with low blood sugar, I have to eat every few hours or I can faint. So I knew I couldn’t adhere, but people still looked at me in annoyance when I’d buy a kebab.

Pro: Easy to Save Money

Not only does Turkey have a low cost of living, but it’s also an amazing place to save money!

This is because the interest rates on savings accounts are high – around 10%.

Of course, this varies depending on the bank and the current economic climate, but it’s still higher than what you’ll find in most developed countries.

This means that while saving money on your living expenses, that money can MAKE YOU MORE MONEY just by sitting in your bank account without any risky investments.

Opening a bank account is so much EASIER by creating a free multi-currency account here.

Con: Lira Isn’t Worth Much Abroad

While the Turkish Lira (TRY) is doing better than it was a few years ago, it’s still not worth as much as other currencies.

This means that if you earn money in Turkey, it won’t go as far when you travel abroad.

For example, at the time of writing this $100 USD is currently worth 1,830.87 TRY.

So if you’re planning to travel a lot, you may want to consider earning money in a different currency.

Or if, like me, you move a lot. I recommend sticking with a job that pays in another currency so it’s easier to transfer without taking a loss.

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Pro: Low Crime Rate

Turkey is a relatively safe country, especially compared to its neighbors in the Middle East.

While there are always exceptions, most of the time you can walk around without worry.

For example, the US had 56% more crimes per capita than Turkey in 2021. It had lower levels of drug crime, executions, murders, rapes, violent crime, and gun crime than the US.

Turkey – and most Middle Eastern or Islamic countries – has a bad reputation due to Western media portraying anyone Islamic or Middle Eastern as a terrorist or a threat.

Even my grandmother warned me not to go because I’d get abducted (although her fears relate more to border issues between Serbia and Turkey hundreds of years ago, not religious or racial issues like we see today).

But I had an amazing time!

I honestly felt safer in Turkey – with a few minor precautions like not waving around my handbag or wearing tons of jewellery – than I did in Italy or anywhere in the US.

Con: Dangerous Near Syrian Border

While most of Turkey is safe, the border regions near Syria are not.

I was warned by several people – Turks and foreigners alike – not to go anywhere near the city of Gaziantep.

This is because it’s so close to the Syrian border that there have been bombings and other terrorist attacks.

Most tours won’t even go near the border, so visitors never have to worry.

But if you’re looking to move to Turkey, be sure to stay in the north.

Con: Struggles for Foreign Women

I wanted to address this outright as so many people say that Turkey is bad for women.

It’s not.

The struggles I’m referring to here are honestly so minimal, that I barely even wanted to call them a con!

Essentially the only issues I had in Turkey were:

1. You need to carry something to cover your shoulders, legs and head for mosque visits (same as the Vatican, with the addition of a head covering)
2. You’ll want to dress more modestly in conservative small towns
3. You can’t share a room with a member of the opposite sex in some small B&Bs in the small towns (not my issue, but a friend’s)
4. There’s not a ton of lighting at night in some smaller towns
5. All the people telling me things were going to be horrible so I unnecessarily stressed out for the first two weeks of my visit

Honestly, being a foreign woman living in Turkey is EASY.

You get so used to having a scarf tied to the handles of your bag when you travel, and flowy linen clothing just fits better with the climate.

I never had issues walking alone, even when I once left my bag in a cafe and had to return for it.

And I never wore a fake ring or did any of the nonsense some bloggers tell you to do in Turkey. It’s an overreaction.

You may get a couple of catcalls around bars at night, and pickpockets frequent the popular tourist spots in Istanbul. That’s all you’ll have to handle.

Con: Not LGBTQI+ Friendly

Turkey is not the most LGBTQI+ friendly country, but it’s also not the worst.

There are no legal protections for queer people, and same-sex marriage is not recognized.

However, there are some small Pride events that happen annually in Istanbul and Ankara. The government has tried to shut them down in the past, but they continue to happen.

Some smaller towns are actively anti-LGBTQI+.

But if you live in Istanbul, you’ll be a bit more accepted, although it’s expected that you do not engage in PDA.

I’d recommend living in another country if you identify as anything other than heterosexual or aren’t in a straight-passing relationship.

Pro: Amazing Food

The food in Turkey is incredible.

There’s kebabs, of course, but also so much more.

You have to try the stuffed grape leaves (dolma), eggplant dishes, Iskender kebab, pide (Turkish pizza), kunefe (a dessert made with cheese and phyllo dough), and Turkish coffee.

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg!

You’ll never get bored of the food here.

The fresh produce and local yoghurts are to die for!

Con: Few Vegetarian Options

While the food is amazing, it can be tough to find vegetarian-friendly options.

I’m not a vegetarian, but my friends who are had a hard time finding things to eat.

Most dishes contain meat, and even salads often have chicken or beef broth added to them.

Or they’d be cooked in dish that had had meat, causing some cross contamination issues.

So if you’re a vegetarian, you will need to plan to cook for yourself more often.

Pro: Outdoor Lifestyle

The weather in Turkey is pretty great year-round, so people spend a lot of time outdoors.

In the spring and fall, you’ll see people picnicking in the parks.

And in the summer, everyone heads to the beach.

There are also tons of hiking trails all around the country.

So if you love being outdoors, you’ll feel right at home in Turkey.

Con: Homesickness

At first, you’ll be so excited to live in a new country. Everything is new and shiny and you’re just thrilled to be experiencing it all.

But eventually, the novelty will wear off and you’ll start to feel homesick.

You’ll miss your family and friends and the familiar comforts of home.

It’s normal to feel this way and it doesn’t mean you made a mistake by moving to Turkey.

But it’s something you should be prepared for.

I found it hit me harder due to the culture shock of the country and the feelings of isolation that come with not having many local friends who can help you connect with the local area.

But you can overcome homesickness and have an amazing experience living in Turkey!

Pro: Ocean-Front Living

A major pro to living in Turkey is that you can live right on the water.

Whether you want to be on the Black Sea, the Aegean Sea, or the Mediterranean Sea, there are countless options for ocean-front living.

And it’s not just beach towns – plenty of major cities are right on the water as well.

This lifestyle is perfect if you love spending time at the beach, swimming, or just enjoy the sound and smell of the ocean.

Con: Expect Lateness

If you’re used to punctuality, you’ll need to readjust your expectations in Turkey.

Most Turks are very relaxed about time, and it’s not uncommon for people to show up late to appointments or social gatherings.

Of course, there are exceptions to this rule, but in general, you should expect things to start later than you’re used to.

Pro: People Don’t Live to Work

While Turks do work hard, they also don’t live to work like many people in Western cultures.

There’s more of a focus on family, friends, and leisure time.

It’s a lot like when I was living in New Zealand: people would work until the end of the day, then they were off to live their lives.

It’s because they treat their jobs as a means of income, not as a way to define themselves.

That’s true of most European nations, and definitely is something I look for in a place to live.

So if you’re looking for a slower-paced lifestyle, Turkey could be the place for you!

Con: Many Tradespeople Have No Qualifications

While there are plenty of highly skilled and qualified tradespeople in Turkey, there are also many who have no formal training or qualifications.

So if you’re looking for someone to do a job that requires special skills, it can be hard to find someone who meets your standards.

You’ll want to speak with someone you know and trust for a recommendation on an actually skilled tradesperson who isn’t just a random with a wrench looking for some money – who will likely leave you with a toilet that can’t flush for a week.

Pro: Rich History and Culture

Turkey has a long and rich history, dating back to the Ottoman Empire.

And that history is evident in the culture, which is a mix of East and West.

You’ll find traditional Turkish music and dance, as well as modern pop music and international cuisine.

The country is also home to some of the most well-preserved Roman ruins in the world.

Some people are surprised by the history since Turkey, as we know it, wasn’t founded until 1923.

But the land has been inhabited for millennia and there’s so much to explore!

Con: Avoid Political Discussions

Turkey is a republic, but there are still some sensitive topics when it comes to politics.

It’s best to avoid discussing these topics with people you don’t know well, as they can be easily offended.

And even if you are close with someone, it’s best to tread lightly – especially when it comes to the Turkish government.

People have very polarizing political views and will cut ties with people – or come to blows – over differences in opinion.

So unless you want to get into a heated argument (or worse), it’s best to avoid the topic altogether.

Pro: Great Transportation Network

Turkey has an excellent transportation network, making it easy to get around the country.

The bus system is efficient and there are high-speed trains that connect many of the major cities.

And if you’re looking to travel internationally, Istanbul has two major airports with plenty of domestic and international flights.

Con: Hard to Buy a Car & Drivers Are Terrifying

While public transportation is great, it can be difficult – and expensive – to buy a car in Turkey.

The process is complicated and there are lots of fees and taxes that add up quickly.

And once you have a car, actually driving it can be a nightmare.

Turkish drivers are some of the most aggressive I’ve ever encountered.

They have no regard for pedestrians and will honk incessantly – even if there’s no one around.

So unless you’re an experienced driver, or you really need a car, I would recommend using public transportation.

And if you do need to get somewhere with a car, be prepared to drink HEAVILY afterwards due to the stress.

Pro: Easy to Travel Abroad

Since Turkey is such a popular tourist destination, it’s easy to find flights to many international destinations.

And if you’re looking to travel within Europe, there are plenty of low-cost airlines that fly to and from Istanbul.

So if you get the travel bug, you can easily scratch that itch!

Con: Internet is Censored

The internet is censored in Turkey, which means that you might not be able to access all of your favorite websites.

And since the government is constantly changing the laws, it’s hard to keep up with what is and isn’t allowed.

I used a VPN when I lived in Turkey, which made it very easy for me to browse like I was in the US, UK, or Canada whenever I needed to (and meant I could access any Netflix I liked!).

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Pro: Amazing International Schools

If you’re looking to move to Turkey with your family, you’ll be happy to know that there are many excellent international schools.

These schools offer a high-quality education and are accredited by organizations like the International Baccalaureate.

From kindergarten to high school, your kids will be getting a top-notch education that will prepare them for university and beyond.

Pro: Incredible Tea and Coffee

Turkey is known for its amazing tea and coffee. In fact, tea is such an important part of Turkish culture that there’s even a saying: “You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy tea.”

And while Turkish coffee might be an acquired taste for some, it’s definitely worth trying!

My grandma drinks a giant jug of it every morning. Maybe that’s the secret to living to 93+ and rocking life??

Pro/Con: Street Animals

I loved the street animals across Turkey – from the street cats of Istanbul and the dogs of Antalya.

They added so much character to the places I visited and I loved being able to feed them and give them some love.

I very nearly brought 8 puppies home with me when I finally moved out of Istanbul.

There’s this community mentality in Turkey that I love. They treat these street animals like pets that everyone has to do their part to care for.

People regularly bring them food and treats.

However, the cities are pretty overrun with these strays. There are many rescue groups working to spay the animals to keep the numbers more reasonable.

Animal haters will want to avoid Turkey since you’ll be faced with a lot of them!

Living in Turkey FAQ

Is Living in Turkey a Good Idea?

Your individual needs will determine whether living in Turkey is a good idea for you.

If you work digitally, are looking for a warm climate with a low cost of living, and if you appreciate meat-based cuisine, Turkey will be a good idea for you.

But if you’re a vegetarian who doesn’t want to live without winter snow, and enjoys being one of the locals, Turkey isn’t a good idea for you.

Is it easy to get a job in Turkey?

No, it is not easy for foreigners to get a job in Turkey unless they have a work permit and speak some Turkish.

It is easier for foreigners to get a job with an international company or to work remotely from Turkey. This also typically means higher wages as they are paid in a foreign currency that is worth more than the Turkish lira.

What are the cons of living in Turkey?

The cons of living in Turkey include internet censorship, a lack of vegetarian options, and the fact that it can be challenging to find work as a foreigner. Additionally, animal lovers may find the number of stray animals overwhelming.

But the pros of living in Turkey may outweigh the cons.

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What are the benefits of living in Turkey?

Some benefits of living in Turkey include the warm climate, the low cost of living, the excellent international schools, and the delicious tea and coffee. Additionally, many people find Turkish culture to be very welcoming and hospitable.

As a woman, I found Turkey had many unexpected benefits and that safety wasn’t as much of a concern as I’d feared.

Is moving to Turkey a good idea?

Only you can answer whether moving to Turkey is a good idea for you. Consider your individual needs and whether the pros of living in Turkey outweigh the cons.

Families will love Turkey for the excellent school systems and low cost of living.

Solo females will need to carry a scarf and get used to people telling them it’s dangerous when it’s not.

Workers will want to find international employment to increase their wages.

Retirees will love moving to Turkey for cheaper homes.

But if you have chronic health conditions, the cost of insurance could be a deal breaker.

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Is Turkey safe to live in?

Turkey is safe to live in, but as with anywhere, there are always risks.

The biggest safety concerns in Turkey are petty crime and scams.

But if you take precautions and use common sense, you’ll be just fine.

As a single woman, I went around alone all the time and felt much safer than I did in Rome or New York – even if I wasn’t dressed modestly.

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Is English widely spoken in Turkey?

No, English is not widely spoken in all regions of Turkey.

While most people in the tourism and hospitality industry will speak some English, it’s not enough to get by if you don’t also speak Turkish.

Istanbul is one of the few cities where getting by with English is doable.

That being said, learning some Turkish will go a long way in helping you feel more comfortable living in Turkey.

Need help learning a new language? I recommend iTalki! I’ve tried ALL the apps, but iTalki is the only way I’ve managed to learn as much as living in the local country.

How much money do you need to live comfortably in Turkey?

This really depends on your lifestyle.

If you live modestly, you can get by on as little as $1,000 USD per month. But if you want to live a more western lifestyle with a nicer apartment in Istanbul and go out to eat often, you’ll need at least $3,000 USD per month.

Of course, your costs will also go up if you have a family.

Best Places to Live in Turkey as an American

If you’re looking for a place to live in Turkey that feels like home, here are a few of the best places for Americans:

• Istanbul – The city has a more western feel with great food and nightlife options.
• Ankara – The capital is more relaxed than Istanbul and is a great place to raise a family.
• Izmir – This coastal city is cheaper than Istanbul, but still has a lot to offer.
• Bodrum – A beautiful resort town that’s perfect for retirees or people who want a slower-paced lifestyle.

Wrap Up: Pros and Cons of Living in Turkey as a Foreigner

So, is Turkey a good place to live?

It really depends on your individual needs and what you’re looking for in a country.

But overall, I would say yes – Turkey is an excellent place to live as a foreigner.

The pros of living in Turkey outweigh the cons for most people, but be sure to do your research before making the move.

If you’re considering a move to Turkey, I hope this article helped you make your decision.