Which city of Turkey is better for living in? what do you think? The best city to live in Turkey can vary depending on individual preferences, needs, and priorities. Here are some of the most popular cities in Turkey for living, each with its unique attributes:
Which city of Turkey is better for living in?
in this article, we will compare to cities in Türkiye, the disadvantages and advantages of the 5 cities that are the best for living in Turkey. These cities are Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Antalya, Bursa and Alanya.
1. Istanbul
- Pros:
- Largest city and cultural hub
- Rich history and diverse culture
- Vibrant nightlife, dining, and shopping
- Numerous job opportunities, especially in business and tech
- Cons:
- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic and crowded
- Higher levels of air pollution

Istanbul
2. Ankara
- Pros:
- The capital city with a governmental and diplomatic presence
- Well-organized and modern infrastructure
- Relatively lower cost of living compared to Istanbul
- Good educational institutions and healthcare
- Cons:
- Less vibrant cultural scene compared to Istanbul
- Inland location, no proximity to beaches

Ankara
3. Izmir
- Pros:
- Coastal city with beautiful beaches
- Mediterranean climate
- Relaxed and laid-back lifestyle
- Growing expat community
- Cons:
- Job opportunities are more limited compared to Istanbul and Ankara
- Can be very hot in summer

Izmir
4. Antalya
- Pros:
- Famous for its beautiful coastline and tourism
- Warm climate most of the year
- Lower cost of living compared to bigger cities
- Cons:
- The economy heavily reliant on tourism
- Fewer job opportunities outside of tourism

Antalya
5. Bursa
- Pros:
- Industrial city with a growing economy
- Close to Istanbul but more affordable
- Rich in history and natural beauty (Mount Uludağ)
- Cons:
- Less cosmopolitan than Istanbul
- More conservative social environment

Bursa
6. Alanya
- Pros:
- A touristic city in the south of Turkey
- The cost of living is lower
- high safety
- Cons:
- Limited job opportunities

Alanya
Factors to consider for living
- Work Opportunities: Major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir offer more job opportunities, especially in diverse sectors.
- Cost of Living: Smaller cities like Alanya, and Bursa may offer a lower cost of living compared to Istanbul.
- Climate: Coastal cities like Izmir and Alanya have warmer climates, while inland cities like Ankara can have harsher winters.
- Lifestyle: Consider whether you prefer a bustling city environment (Istanbul), a more relaxed coastal lifestyle (Izmir, Alanya), or a mix of both.
Your decision should be based on what aligns best with your lifestyle, career, and personal preferences.
Here’s a quick comparison table for the cities you mentioned based on factors like cost of living, lifestyle, job opportunities, and environment:
Factor | Alanya | Antalya | Ankara | Istanbul |
Cost of Living | Affordable | Moderate | Moderate | Expensive |
Lifestyle | Relaxed | Balanced | Urban | Busy |
Job | Limited, | Better | Strong | Excellent |
Environment | Coastal | Coastal | Urban | Urban |
Best cities in Turkey to live
Turkey offers a diverse range of cities that cater to professionals seeking career advancement and a high quality of life. Here are some of the top cities in Turkey renowned for their work opportunities:
1. Istanbul: The Economic Powerhouse
As Turkey’s largest city, Istanbul is the country’s cultural and economic hub. Its strategic location bridging Europe and Asia makes it a focal point for international business and trade. The city boasts a diverse job market, particularly in finance, technology, tourism, and media.
Many multinational corporations have established their regional headquarters here, offering ample opportunities for career growth.
However, it’s worth noting that the cost of living in Istanbul is relatively high, and the city is known for its traffic congestion.
2. Ankara: The Political and Administrative Center
Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, is the nation’s political and administrative heart. It is home to numerous government institutions, embassies, and universities, making it ideal for professionals in public administration, international relations, and academia.
The city offers a more organized and less chaotic lifestyle compared to Istanbul, with a lower cost of living.
However, it may lack the dynamic nightlife and historical richness found in other Turkish cities.
3. Izmir: The Gateway to the Aegean Region
Located on the Aegean coast, Izmir is Turkey’s third-largest city and a significant hub for trade and commerce. Known for its scenic beauty and relaxed lifestyle, Izmir is becoming a top destination for professionals in the manufacturing, logistics, and agriculture industries.
The city’s combination of economic growth and a laid-back, coastal lifestyle makes it appealing for those looking to advance their careers without the hustle of a megacity like Istanbul.
4. Bursa: A Hub for Manufacturing and Automotive Industries
Bursa, the former capital of the Ottoman Empire, is known for its historical significance and industrial growth.
The city is a hub for the automotive and textile industries, offering job opportunities in these sectors. Its proximity to Istanbul adds to its appeal, providing access to a larger network of businesses and services.
While growing, Bursa lacks the cosmopolitan appeal of Istanbul and Izmir.
5. Antalya: A Booming Tourism and Hospitality Hub
Known as the tourism capital of Turkey, Antalya offers a combination of sunny beaches, historical landmarks, and lush greenery.
The city’s thriving tourism industry provides job opportunities in hospitality and services.
Antalya is ideal for individuals seeking a peaceful yet vibrant lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty. However, non-tourism-related job prospects may be limited.
How is living in Alanya?
Alanya is a coastal city located on the southern coast of Turkey, part of the Antalya Province.
It’s known for its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and pleasant climate also some people remember it as the best place to live in Turkey.
Here’s a detailed look at the pros and cons of living in Alanya: Pros of Living in Alanya
- Climate:
- Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
- Ideal for those who enjoy warm weather and sunshine year-round.
- Scenic Beauty:
- Stunning coastline with beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.
- Picturesque landscapes, including the Taurus Mountains.
- Cost of Living:
- Generally lower cost of living compared to larger cities like Istanbul and Ankara.
- Affordable housing options, especially for renting or buying property near the coast.
- Lifestyle:
- Relaxed and laid-back lifestyle.
- Active outdoor life with opportunities for water sports, hiking, and exploring historical sites.
- Vibrant expat community, which can make integration easier for newcomers.
- Tourism:
- Popular tourist destination, which can offer opportunities for those interested in the tourism and hospitality industries.
- Well-developed infrastructure to support tourism, including restaurants, cafes, and entertainment options.
- Historical and Cultural Attractions:
- Rich history with landmarks like Alanya Castle, Red Tower, and Damlatas Cave.
- Various cultural festivals and events throughout the year.

Living in Alanya
Cons of Living in Alanya
- Employment Opportunities:
- The job market may be limited outside of the tourism and hospitality sectors.
- Fewer opportunities for professional careers compared to larger cities.
- Seasonal Fluctuations:
- Population and activity levels can fluctuate with the tourist seasons.
- Some businesses may operate seasonally, affecting year-round employment and services.
- Language Barrier:
- While many people in the tourism sector speak English, learning Turkish is beneficial for integration and accessing local services.
- Healthcare:
- Good access to healthcare facilities, but may not be as advanced as those in larger cities.
- For specialized medical care, travel to Antalya or other major cities might be necessary.
- Isolation:
- Alanya is somewhat isolated compared to larger urban centers.
- Those who crave the hustle and bustle of big city life may find it too quiet or slow-paced.
- Community: A strong expat community can provide support and social opportunities.
- Transportation: Well-connected by road, but for international travel, Antalya Airport is the nearest major airport.
- Lifestyle Fit: Ideal for those seeking a peaceful coastal life with plenty of sunshine and outdoor activities.
Alanya can be a wonderful place to live, especially for those looking for a relaxed coastal environment and a slower pace of life.
However, it’s important to consider job opportunities and the potential need for travel to larger cities for specialized services.
About us:
Travok in Turkey is not only a real estate but also a construction company, we can help you to buy projects in Alanya or to find Istanbul property for sale.
Also if you need any information about opening a bank account in Turkey or Golden visa or Turkey citizenship by Investment, you can read our other articles in our website.
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Turkey can be a good place to live, offering a mix of modern cities, rich culture, affordable living, and a warm climate, but it also has challenges like economic fluctuations and bureaucratic hurdles.
Modern cities, rich culture, affordable living, and a warm climate.
Yes, compared to many Western countries, but costs vary by city.
Inflation and currency fluctuations can impact the cost of living.
It can be complicated, especially for foreigners handling residency or business.
Generally warm, with coastal regions having a Mediterranean climate.
Yes, cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir have modern infrastructure.
Yes, with a deep history, diverse traditions, and vibrant cuisine.
Mostly, but safety depends on location and staying informed about local issues.
Yes, but they need to handle residency permits and legal processes.