Moving to Istanbul

Living in Istanbul as an expat

Expats moving to Istanbul should prepare themselves for a massive city spread across two continents. You will navigate 16 million people and traffic that never seems to stop. It is loud and demanding, but the sheer scale of the place is what makes it interesting.

You may face some initial culture shock, especially regarding the language barrier and the frantic traffic. Yet, the warmth of the local people often helps new arrivals settle in quickly. Whether you spend your weekends crossing the Bosphorus on a ferry or hunting for antiques in Cihangir, you won’t run out of things to do.

You will soon discover that living in Istanbul as an expat involves adapting to a unique rhythm where East meets West. While the energy of the city is undeniable, it can take time to adjust to the noise and density. However, once you find your footing, the experience offers a richness that few other cities can match.

Working in Istanbul

You may find that working in Istanbul is challenging if you hope to secure a traditional role in a local company. Turkey often prioritises hiring citizens, and many sectors remain closed to foreigners. If you do not speak Turkish fluently, your options in the local market are generally limited to teaching English or working in the tourism sector.

Regulations for remote work changed in 2024. Istanbul has since become a magnet for digital nomads who earn in foreign currencies like USD or EUR. This visa route lets them bypass the struggles of the local labour market.

Finding a Job in Turkey
Visas for Turkey

Lifestyle in Istanbul

The lifestyle in Istanbul is heavily centred around socialising and dining. Locals spend hours lingering over tea or coffee, and the city comes alive at night, particularly in districts like Beyoğlu and Kadıköy. For shopping, you have the choice between historic experiences at the Grand Bazaar or high-end retail therapy at modern malls like Zorlu Centre.

Shopping, Nightlife and Coffee Culture in Istanbul 
Best Attractions and Sightseeing in Istanbul 
Recommended Weekend Breaks from Istanbul

Finding accommodation in Istanbul

You will have a choice between the European and Asian sides of the city when finding accommodation in Istanbul. Most foreigners stick to the European side, particularly districts like Beyoğlu and Şişli, although these areas are significantly more expensive. The Asian side feels more like a community and less like a tourist trap, usually with the bonus of slightly lower rents.

Rental prices have spiked in recent years. As of late 2025, you should budget upwards of USD 1,100 (approx. 40,000 TL) for a one-bedroom apartment in a central area. The rental market is fast. Good apartments go quickly, so be ready to sign the lease immediately.

Your main priority should be the building's structural integrity. Istanbul sits on a major fault line, so look for properties built after the 2018 regulations update and check government safety maps before signing a lease. Some coastal districts are also implementing new ‘Tsunami Ready’ certifications, which is worth verifying if you plan to live near the water.

Renting Expat Accommodation in Istanbul

Cost of living in Istanbul

Your expenses depend entirely on how you live. Local services and produce are cheap compared to the US or the UK, but prices are rising. Imported goods are a different story. The government taxes cars and alcohol aggressively, so these items cost far more here than in Europe.

Inflation has been a persistent issue in Turkey, leading to frequent price adjustments. Rents in central districts like Beşiktaş or Kadıköy have risen sharply. Conversely, local produce at weekly markets (pazar) and services such as domestic help remain reasonably priced compared to global standards.

Cost of Living in Istanbul

Living in Istanbul with children

You will likely find that living in Istanbul with children is a welcoming experience, as local culture places a high value on family. You will often find waiters doting on your kids in restaurants, and strangers are generally patient and affectionate towards young ones. That said, navigating the city with a stroller can be frustrating due to uneven pavements and steep hills.

For a break from the city, you can take a ferry to the Princes’ Islands, where cars are banned, and electric vehicles or bicycles are the main modes of transport. For a more adrenaline-filled day, Isfanbul Theme Park (formerly VIALAND) features rollercoasters and entertainment complexes that rival European counterparts.

Healthcare is another priority for families. Expats must have health insurance to obtain a residence permit. While private healthcare is excellent and widely available, costs have increased, so ensure your policy has adequate coverage for your family’s needs.

Healthcare in Istanbul 
Kids and Family in Istanbul

Finding a school in Istanbul

Most expats choose private international schools. State schools teach in Turkish, so unless your children are already fluent, they will struggle to keep up. International schools solve this by offering familiar options like the IB or British curriculum.

Tuition fees for top-tier international schools have climbed significantly. You should budget anywhere from USD 20,000 to USD 40,000 per year for tuition at the most prestigious institutions, not including additional costs for lunch, transport, and uniforms. Demand is high, so we recommend starting the application process as early as possible.

Schools and Education for Expats in Istanbul 
International Schools in Istanbul

Getting around in Istanbul

An extensive public transport network generally makes getting around in Istanbul efficient, despite the heavy traffic. The network includes metro lines, trams, funiculars, and the ferries that double as a scenic commute between the European and Asian sides. Traffic gridlock here is a fact of life, but the metro and Marmaray rail link offer reliable alternatives.

Ticket prices jumped in late 2025, although public transport is still good value compared to the Eurozone. You’ll need to buy an Istanbulkart (a reloadable travel card) to get around. Taxis are easy to find, but drivers often refuse to use the meter. Use an app like BiTaksi or Uber to avoid getting overcharged.

Public Transport and Driving in Istanbul

Climate and weather in Istanbul

You will experience distinct seasonal changes in the climate and weather in Istanbul throughout the year. Summers are typically hot and humid, while winters can be surprisingly cold and wet, often bringing occasional snowfall. Spring is the best time to explore, as tulips bloom across the parks and gardens.

The colder months also offer opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts. You can easily access ski resorts such as Uludağ, which is just a short trip away. Autumn provides mild temperatures that are perfect for exploring the city before the winter chill sets in.

Climate Charts for Istanbul