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Türkiye is rapidly emerging as one of the most attractive retirement destinations for foreigners, thanks to its unique blend of affordable living, rich cultural heritage, and diverse landscapes. With a growing number of retirees choosing to spend their golden years in Türkiye, the country offers a compelling mix of modern comforts and traditional warmth.
Retirees are drawn to Türkiye primarily for its significantly lower cost of living compared to Western Europe and the United States. Housing, health care, dining and daily expenses are notably affordable, allowing retirees on modest pensions to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. The country’s Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters further enhances its appeal. Türkiye’s strategic location, bridging Europe and Asia offers a culturally rich environment where East meets West, providing retirees with a vibrant social and historical backdrop.
Overview: Known as the Pearl of the Turkish Riviera, Antalya offers stunning beaches, rich history, sound infrastructure, and a well-established expat community.
Neighbourhoods
Konyaalti and Alanya are popular among retirees for vibrant shopping, dining, and reliable transport, including an international airport.
Property Prices
City-centre apartments average $1,600–$1,610 per square meter, with deals outside the centre at roughly half.
Rent
One-bedroom flats range from $300 to $400 per month in Konyaalti.
Overview
Aegean charm combines seaside ambiance with urban amenities—clean air, relaxed pace and a growing expat presence
Neighborhoods
Alsancak and Karsiyaka (including Bostanli, Mavisehir): Popular among expats for seaside promenades, public transport and vibrant cafe culture.
Buca and Balcova: Affordable housing zones with family-friendly atmospheres and developing expat infrastructure.
Narlidere, Guzelbahce, Urla: Coastal suburbs offering quieter, upscale living environments.
Property Prices
One-bedroom units average around $500/month (around ₺13,500) or as low as ₺1,400 for 1+1 flats in Bornova; three-room fully furnished units with terraces in Balçova can go for ₺2,300/month.
Rent
Expect monthly rates of ₺20,000–₺30,000 for a one‑bedroom in central/suburban areas; lower rates available further inland.
Overview
A dynamic metropolis offering a rich blend of culture, history and global connectivity—ideal for retirees seeking urban vibrancy.
Neighborhoods
Kadıkoy and Besiktas: Quiet yet central ferry and metro districts beloved by expats.
Cihangir, Nisantasi, Etiler: Upscale, cosmopolitan, and with ample amenities.
Property Prices
Rent for studios in key districts like Kadikoy or Besiktas averages over ₺20,000/month; overall housing costs are notably higher than in coastal cities.
Rent
Typical rent for a 1‑bedroom in central zones is ₺20,000–₺25,000 per month.
Overview
A nature-rich Mediterranean retreat favored for sailing, hiking and a tranquil expat lifestyle.
Neighborhoods
Central Fethiye: Close to amenities and the waterfront
Calıs Beach and Oludeniz: Scenic, tourism-focused areas
Hisaonu, Ovacik, Uzumlu: Mountain villages offering peace and local charm
Property Prices
Central: €1,619 per square meter (around $1,700)
Outside centre: ₺50,000–₺100,000 per square meter
Rent
City centre: €566 per month
Outside centre: €397 per month
USD estimates: $430–$730, with summer rates up to $1,000
No dedicated retirement visa: Retirees apply for a short‑term residence permit after entering on a tourist visa (90 days within 180). These are issued for up to two years and renewable indefinitely.
After eight continuous years, you’re eligible for a long-term residence permit, allowing indefinite stay without renewal.
Financial requirements: Must prove "adequate funding," typically at least one time the Turkish minimum wage per person (around ₺17,002 as of early 2024), or a monthly pension equal to that, with additional amounts for dependents.
Health insurance: Mandatory from the start for those under 65, either private or through the SGK after one year.
Fees (2025 rates):
Residence permit card: ₺810
Permit fee: ₺2,000–₺3,000 depending on nationality
Passport translation and notarization: ₺2,500
Health insurance: ₺2,800–₺3,000
Biometric photos: ₺300
Additional costs: Lease notarization and address validation (€50–€150), translation, lawyer fees (optional), bank fees
Alanya is home to approximately 9,800 European expats by 2007, with 17,850 foreign-owned properties—many owned by retirees, especially Germans and Danes
According to Place Overseas, around 30,000 expat homeowners lived in Antalya province (including Alanya) and nearly 20,000 in Mugla province (including Fethiye and Bodrum).
Germans: There are more than 50,000 Germans living in Türkiye, including retirees, many residing along the Mediterranean coast
Britons: Around 35,000 Britons reside in Türkiye, with approximately 1,000 identified as retirees, primarily in coastal destinations like Antalya, Fethiye and Bodrum.
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