Living Conditions in Turkey 2025

Azpo Estate

April 15, 2025
8 min read

Merhaba from Türkiye!

Are you dreaming of a life where sun-soaked Mediterranean days blend seamlessly with a rich tapestry of history and culture? If so, you’re probably wondering about living conditions in Türkiye in 2025. It’s a big question, deserving of an honest, detailed answer.

At AZPO Estate, we’ve helped countless people discover their perfect spot in Türkiye. We’re often asked about what living conditions in Türkiye are really like. So, we’ve created this guide, sharing insights and experiences to give you a true picture of life here in 2025. We’ll explore everything from day-to-day life to the overall quality of life in Turkey, so you can get a feel for what it’s like to live here.

What Are the Living Conditions in Turkey? A Detailed Overview

To truly understand living conditions in Türkiye, we need to consider a few key areas. It’s a mix of factors that create the overall experience. Let’s break it down:

Cost of Living: Compared to North America or many European countries, the cost of living in Türkiye is attractive, especially for housing and everyday expenses.
Quality of Life: The quality of life in Turkey can be high, depending on your priorities. For some, it’s the relaxed pace and outdoor lifestyle. For others, it’s access to modern amenities and cultural experiences.
Safety and Stability: Overall, Turkey is a safe place to live, with cities offering cultural and historical beauty. Of course, like any country, there are areas where crime rates are higher, and it’s important to be aware of your surroundings.
Cultural Experiences: Turkey boasts a vibrant cultural environment, blending European, Asian, and Middle Eastern influences. This is reflected in its cuisine, architecture, and traditions.

Diving Deeper: Key Aspects of Life in Türkiye in 2025

Let’s explore specific aspects of everyday life:

Cost of Living: Your Wallet in Türkiye

One of the first things everyone wants to know is about the cost of living. Generally speaking, compared to many European countries or North America, the cost of living in Türkiye can be quite cheap, especially when it comes to housing and everyday expenses.

Housing Costs:
1. Rentals: Renting an apartment in a major city like Istanbul or Antalya can range from $400 to $1,000 USD per month, depending on location and size.
2. Purchase: If you’re looking to buy, apartment prices in Istanbul average around $230,000 USD for a 100 m2 property in the city center. Outside the city center, that average drops to $150,000 USD.
3. Utilities: Expect to pay around $100 to $200 USD per month for utilities like electricity, water, and gas, depending on usage and the size of your home.

Food: Here’s an overview of 2025 food costs in Turkey, according to the sources:
1. Groceries:
  - Monthly spending for a family of four: TL 8,000–10,000 (USD 231–290).
  - Municipal markets offer food prices about 25% lower than regular stores.
2. Essential Food Item Examples (approximate prices):
  - Milk (1 liter): 30 – 40 Turkish Lira
  - Eggs (12): 50 – 80 Turkish Lira
  - Chicken (1 kg): 180 – 200 Turkish Lira
  - Beef (1 kg): 470 – 622.54 Turkish Lira
  - Bread (500g): 15 – 20 Turkish Lira
  - Potatoes (1 kg): 12 – 20 Turkish Lira
  - Tomatoes (1 kg): 20–25 Turkish Lira
  - Water (1.5 liters): 10 – 12 Turkish Lira
3. Eating Out:
  - Inexpensive restaurant lunch (per person): 250 TL (7 USD ).
  - Dinner for two in a mid-range restaurant: 600 – 1,200 TL (17– 5 USD).
  - Dinner for two in an expensive restaurant: From 2,000 TL (58 USD) .
  - Fast food meal: Around $8.
  - Basic lunch menu (including a drink) in business district: 400 TL.
  - Meal at a fast-food restaurant: 265 TL.

Transportation: Public transportation is readily available and cost-effective in most cities.

Quality of Life in Turkey: What to Expect Daily

Beyond just the numbers, what is the quality of life in Turkey actually like? This is where things get really interesting and personal!

Culture and Hospitality: Turkish culture is renowned for its warmth and hospitality (“misafirperverlik”). You’ll often find people are welcoming and eager to help, especially if you make an effort to learn a few basic Turkish phrases. Personal Experience: I’ve been amazed by the generosity and kindness of Turkish people – from small acts of help in the street to being invited for tea by neighbors.
Food, Glorious Food: Turkish cuisine is a major highlight! It’s incredibly diverse and delicious, from kebabs and mezes to fresh seafood and amazing desserts. Food is a central part of social life, and you’ll find endless opportunities to enjoy meals with friends and family.
Climate and Nature: Türkiye boasts diverse climates depending on the region. The Mediterranean coast enjoys hot summers and mild winters, perfect for beach lovers. Inland areas have more distinct seasons. The natural beauty is stunning, from beaches and mountains to historical sites and national parks. Tip: Antalya’s Mediterranean climate is a huge draw for many!
Safety: Türkiye is generally a safe country. Like any place, petty crime can occur in tourist areas, so it’s always wise to be aware of your surroundings.
Social Life: Socializing is important in Turkish culture. Coffee shops, tea gardens, and parks are popular meeting spots. Family and community ties are strong.
Pace of Life: Life in Türkiye can be a bit more relaxed and less rushed compared to some Western countries. There’s a greater emphasis on enjoying the moment and socializing.

Overall, the quality of life in Turkey can be very high, especially if you value culture, food, nature, and a welcoming community.

What are the disadvantages of living in Turkey?

Like any country, Turkey has its downsides. Being aware of these challenges can help you prepare and make informed decisions about moving.

Income Inequality: There is an unfair income distribution. The minimum wage in Turkey is approximately $260 USD.
Political Stability: The lack of political stability in the country affects living conditions.
Long Working Hours: People work for extremely long hours to earn money.
Taxes: Taxation is a massive problem in Turkey.

Choosing Your City: Finding the Right Fit

Where you choose to live in Turkey greatly impacts your daily life. Here’s a glimpse at a few popular destinations:

Istanbul: A vibrant, historic metropolis straddling Europe and Asia. Offers a wealth of cultural attractions, modern amenities, and diverse neighborhoods.
Antalya: Located on the Mediterranean coast, Antalya boasts stunning beaches, a warm climate, and a relaxed lifestyle. Popular with expats and retirees.
Bodrum: A sophisticated coastal town on the Aegean Sea known for its luxury resorts, historical sites, and vibrant nightlife.
İzmir: A large metropolitan city on the Aegean coast with a modern, Westernized feel. Offers a good balance of urban amenities and coastal living.

Essential Tips for a Smooth Transition

If you’re considering making Türkiye your home, here are some tips to help you prepare:

Learn Some Turkish: While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning basic Turkish phrases will greatly enhance your daily life and interactions with locals.
Research Neighborhoods: Spend time researching different neighborhoods to find the one that best suits your lifestyle and budget.
Connect with Expats: Joining expat communities can provide valuable support, advice, and social connections.
Understand Local Customs: Familiarize yourself with Turkish customs and etiquette to show respect and integrate more easily into society.
Plan Your Finances: Open a Turkish bank account and understand the tax implications of living in Turkey.

Real Estate Options: Finding Your Turkish Home

Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, Turkey offers a variety of housing options to suit different needs and preferences:

Apartments (Daire): The most common type of housing, ranging from simple units to luxury residences in modern complexes.
Villas (Villa): Detached houses, often with private gardens and pools, offering more space and privacy.
Farmhouses (Çiftlik Evi): Rural properties with large land areas, ideal for those seeking a tranquil lifestyle.
Mansions (Konak/ Köşk): Historic or luxurious properties, often with stunning views, catering to high-end buyers.

Navigating the Property Market with AZPO Estate

Finding the right home is crucial to creating your ideal living conditions in Türkiye. At AZPO Estate, we offer personalized guidance to help you navigate the Turkish property market with confidence.

Expert Advice: Benefit from our in-depth knowledge of local markets, property values, and legal processes.
Extensive Listings: Browse a wide range of apartments, villas, and other properties in top locations across Turkey.
Personalized Service: Receive tailored recommendations based on your specific needs, budget, and lifestyle preferences.

Your Turkish Dream Life Awaits

Living in Türkiye in 2025 is an adventure! It’s a chance to immerse yourself in a rich culture, enjoy incredible food, bask in sunshine, and experience warm hospitality. Like any move abroad, it comes with its adjustments, but for many, the rewards are immense.

Turkey is reportedly a haven for foreign property investors. With a positively increasing market, the country attracts investors like never before.

If you’re seriously considering making Türkiye your home, especially the beautiful Antalya region, we at AZPO Estate are here to help you every step of the way. Finding the right home is a huge part of creating your ideal living conditions in Türkiye.

For knowing exact prices contact our team to help you with it.

Ready to explore your options? Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, we have a wide range of properties in some of the best areas of Antalya. From modern apartments with sea views to charming villas in peaceful settings, let us help you find your perfect Turkish home.

We hope this guide has given you a clearer and more realistic picture of living conditions in Türkiye in 2025. If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out! We’re always happy to share our local knowledge and help you on your journey to Türkiye.