If you’re planning on moving to Turkey from the UK, one of the first questions you’ll ask yourself is: “Where in Turkey should I live?”
Turkey is a vast and diverse country, offering bustling cities, stunning coastlines, and quiet retreats. Whether you’re a retiree seeking sunshine, a family looking for affordable living, or a professional moving for work opportunities, Turkey has a perfect location for you.
To make your relocation easier, we’ve created this guide to the most popular expat destinations in Turkey. And when you’re ready to plan your move, check out 👉 Moving to Turkey from UK for everything you need about visas, removals, and settling in.
🏙️ Istanbul – The Cultural & Economic Hub
As Turkey’s largest city, Istanbul is a magnet for expats who want to experience vibrant city life.
- Why Expats Choose Istanbul:
- Huge expat community and international schools.
- Endless job opportunities in finance, tech, and tourism.
- A mix of modern living with deep history and culture.
- Cost of Living: Higher than coastal towns, but still much lower than London.
👉 SEO tip: “Moving to Istanbul from UK” is a popular search term, making this a top expat relocation hotspot.
🌴 Antalya – A Mediterranean Paradise
Known for its beautiful beaches, Antalya is one of the most popular choices for British expats moving to Turkey.
- Why Expats Love Antalya:
- Year-round sunshine and turquoise coastline.
- Affordable property and cost of living.
- Popular with retirees thanks to relaxed lifestyle.
- Lifestyle: Outdoor living, beach cafés, golf courses, and a large English-speaking community.
👉 SEO tip: “Relocating to Antalya” is especially popular with retirees.
⛵ Bodrum – The Stylish Coastal Town
Bodrum has long been a favourite for international residents, offering a mix of luxury living and authentic Turkish charm.
- Why Expats Choose Bodrum:
- Trendy cafés, yacht marina, and a cosmopolitan feel.
- Well-connected by international airport.
- Popular with both retirees and digital nomads.
- Property: Options range from affordable apartments to high-end villas overlooking the sea.
👉 SEO tip: Target “Moving to Bodrum from UK”.
🌞 Fethiye – A Retirement Favourite
Fethiye is a small but thriving expat town on Turkey’s southern coast, loved for its community spirit.
- Why Expats Love Fethiye:
- Strong British expat community.
- Relaxed pace of life with excellent healthcare.
- Affordable cost of living and property.
- Lifestyle: Ideal for retirees and families who want a quieter life by the sea.
👉 SEO tip: “Retiring in Fethiye” is a strong long-tail keyword.
🏖️ Izmir – The Coastal City Alternative
Izmir is Turkey’s third-largest city, offering a perfect blend of modern life and Mediterranean charm.
- Why Expats Pick Izmir:
- Lower cost of living than Istanbul.
- Modern infrastructure and great healthcare.
- Friendly, progressive atmosphere popular with younger expats.
👉 SEO tip: “Moving to Izmir” has rising search volume.
🏡 Alanya – Family-Friendly Coastal Living
Alanya is growing in popularity with families relocating from the UK thanks to its affordable lifestyle.
- Why Expats Love Alanya:
- Cheaper housing and schooling options.
- Safe, friendly town with stunning beaches.
- Good transport links and plenty of sunshine.
👉 SEO tip: “Relocating to Alanya” appeals to budget-conscious expats.
✈️ Final Thoughts – Where Should You Move in Turkey?
Choosing where to live in Turkey depends on your lifestyle, budget, and goals. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the laid-back coastal vibes of Fethiye and Antalya, each destination offers something unique.
Ready to plan your move? Get expert advice, instant quotes, and relocation support with our complete guide 👉 Moving to Turkey from UK.