Best Neighborhoods To Live In Izmir Turkey Introduction
Welcome to The Ultimate Guide to the Best Neighborhoods to Live in Izmir Turkey!
Nestled along the picturesque Aegean coastline, Izmir has a vibrant mix of history, culture, and modernity.
For expats searching for a new home in this dynamic city, picking the perfect neighborhood can be difficult when there are so many to choose from.
From the busy streets of Alsancak to the peaceful seaside charm of Çeşme, each district offers a distinct lifestyle.
Join us on a journey through the best neighborhoods Izmir has to offer, where we discuss the pros and cons, who it’s perfect for, rent ranges, and much more.
We spent $900 – $1,000 per month while living in Izmir Turkey for both of our living costs.
Table of Contents
10 Top Reasons to Live in Izmir Turkey
- Mediterranean Climate: Enjoy mild winters and long, sunny summers in Izmir, thanks to its Mediterranean climate. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, you’ll find many ways to soak up the warmth and embrace an outdoor lifestyle.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Immerse yourself in centuries of history as you explore Izmir’s ancient ruins, bustling bazaars, and vibrant neighborhoods. From the majestic Agora to the impressive Izmir Archaeology Museum, there’s an abundance of cultural wonders waiting to be discovered.
- Cosmopolitan Atmosphere: Experience the best of both worlds in Izmir, where the laid-back Aegean lifestyle meets a cosmopolitan vibe. With a diverse population and a thriving arts and music scene, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a melting pot of cultures and ideas.
- Delicious Cuisine: Indulge your taste buds with Izmir’s delectable cuisine, influenced by Greek, Turkish, and Mediterranean flavors. From fresh seafood and mouthwatering mezes to aromatic spices and sweet desserts, every meal is a tasty adventure waiting to be enjoyed.
- Affordable Cost of Living: Enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank in Izmir, where the cost of living is significantly lower than in many European cities. From housing and groceries to dining out and entertainment, you’ll find that your money goes further here.
- Stunning Natural Beauty: Be mesmerized by the breathtaking landscapes that surround Izmir, from the azure waters of the Aegean Sea to the lush greenery of the countryside. Whether you’re hiking in the mountains, sunbathing on the beach, or exploring hidden coves, you’ll be constantly reminded of nature’s wonders.
- Excellent Healthcare: You can relax in Turkey knowing that healthcare services are readily available in Izmir, with modern hospitals, clinics, and medical facilities equipped to meet your needs. Whether you require routine check-ups or specialized treatment, you’ll receive expert care from skilled professionals.
- Dynamic Economy: Izmir’s dynamic economy, serves as a hub for trade, commerce, and industry in Turkey. With a strong focus on sectors such as tourism, manufacturing, and technology, there are many opportunities for career growth and entrepreneurial ventures.
- Warm Hospitality: Experience the legendary Turkish hospitality firsthand in Izmir, where locals welcome newcomers with open arms and genuine warmth. Whether you’re sharing a cup of çay (tea) with neighbors or joining in festive celebrations, you’ll quickly feel like part of the community.
- Convenient Location: Benefit from Izmir’s strategic location as a gateway to both Turkey and the wider world, with an international airport offering direct flights to major destinations. Whether you’re exploring other cities in Turkey or flying to enjoy an adventure in Europe, you’ll find that Izmir’s central location makes travel easy and convenient.
Cultural Considerations in Izmir Turkey
By keeping these cultural aspects in mind, you’ll be able to show respect for the local customs while creating meaningful connections and enriching your experience in Izmir.
- Respect for Elders: In Turkish culture, respect for elders is highly valued. It’s customary to greet older people with respect and to address them using appropriate titles, such as “abi” (older brother) or “abla” (older sister).
- Hospitality: Turkish people are known for their warm hospitality. Prepare to be invited into homes for meals or tea, and be kind when accepting these invitations. It’s also common practice to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home.
- Greetings: When meeting someone for the first time or entering a shop or restaurant, it’s polite to greet them with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Use formal titles such as “Hoca” (teacher) or “Bey” (Mr.) and “Hanım” (Mrs.) when addressing someone.
- Modest Dress: While Izmir is more liberal compared to other parts of Turkey, it’s respectful to still dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Avoid revealing clothing and go for conservative attire.
- Language: While many people in Izmir speak English, learning a few basic Turkish phrases will be greatly appreciated and can help start conversations with local people not to mention they will be impressed by your efforts to speak their language.
- Religious Sensitivity: Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country, and Islam plays a significant role in daily life. Be respectful of religious practices and customs, especially during Ramadan, when Muslims fast from dawn to sunset.
- Personal Space: Turks tend to be more expressive in their interactions. Expect friendly gestures such as hugs, kisses on the cheek, and close proximity during conversations. Respect personal space but also be open to these displays of warmth.
- Time Management: While punctuality is appreciated, it’s common for meetings and social gatherings to start a bit later than scheduled. Be patient and flexible with timing, and don’t be surprised if appointments don’t run on time.
- Gift Giving: When invited to someone’s home, it’s customary to bring a small gift such as sweets, flowers, or a token of appreciation. Avoid gifts made of leather or alcohol, as they may not be appropriate for all recipients.
- Eating Customs: Turkish cuisine is an important aspect of the culture, and meals are often enjoyed as communal gatherings. When dining out, wait for the host or eldest person to begin eating before you start, and be sure to let the chef know how delicious the food is.
General Cost of Living in Izmir Turkey Breakdown:
| Living Expenses as an Expat in Izmir, Turkey | Expense | Cost Range (USD) | Cost Range (TRY) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing | Basic 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $300 – $500 | 9,000 – 15,000 |
| 2-bedroom apartment (city center) | $500 – $800 | 15,000 – 24,000 | |
| 3-bedroom apartment (city center) | $800 – $1,200 | 24,000 – 36,000 | |
| 3-4 bedroom villa (compound living) | $1,000 – $2,000 | 30,000 – 60,000 | |
| Utilities (electricity, AC, water) for a family | $100 – $200 | 3,000 – 6,000 | |
| Food | Local and imported groceries for the family | $400 – $800 | 12,000 – 24,000 |
| Dining out 2-3 times a week | $150 – $300 | 4,500 – 9,000 | |
| Cheap street food and fast food per meal | $2 – $5 | 60 – 150 | |
| Transportation in Izmir | Metro (Izmir Metro) | $0.50 – $1 | 15 – 30 |
| Buses (Izmir Şehir İçi) | $0.50 – $1 | 15 – 30 | |
| Ferry Boat (Izmir Deniz Otobüsü) | $1 – $2 | 30 – 60 | |
| Taxi | $2 – $5 (base fare) + $0.50 – $1 per km | 60 – 150 (base fare) + 15 – 30 per km | |
| Rent a Car | $200 – $500 per month | 6,000 – 15,000 per month | |
| Gasoline (per gallon) | $4 – $6 | 120 – 180 | |
| Total Monthly Cost of Living for a Family | $850 – $2,000 | 25,500 – 60,000 TRY |
Pros and Cons Of the 11 Neighborhoods and Areas in Izmir Turkey
| Best Neighborhoods for Expats To Live in Izmir Turkey | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Alsancak | Central location, a lively area with cafes and shops, close to the waterfront | Traffic congestion, noise levels, high rental prices |
| Karşıyaka | Quieter residential area, good transportation links, affordable housing | Across the bay from the city center, limited nightlife options |
| Bornova | Affordable housing, lively student scene, good amenities | Heavy traffic, crowded, can be noisy |
| Buca | Affordable cost of living, family-friendly, quieter suburban area | Farther from the city center, fewer amenities |
| Güzelyalı | Upscale neighborhood, beachfront location, luxury housing | High rental prices, limited public transportation |
| Balçova | Quieter residential area, international schools, good for families | Limited nightlife and entertainment options |
| Narlıdere | Convenient location, close to city center, access to beaches | Traffic congestion, noise levels |
| Urla | Coastal town, relaxed atmosphere, beautiful nature | Far from Izmir city center, limited amenities |
| Çeşme | Popular resort town, beautiful beaches, nightlife | High rental prices, crowded in summer, far from Izmir |
| Konak | Historical city center, cultural attractions, lively atmosphere | Traffic congestion, noise levels, high rental prices |
| Bayraklı | Affordable housing, good transportation links | Limited amenities, can be crowded |
| Güzelyalı | Upscale neighborhood, beachfront location, luxury housing | High rental prices, limited public transportation |
| Karabağlar | Affordable housing, good transportation links | Limited amenities, can be crowded |
11 Top Neighborhoods in Izmir Turkey to Live for Expats
| Best Neighborhoods for Expats To Live in Izmir Turkey | Description | Estimated Rent Range (USD) | Estimated Rent Range (TRY) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alsancak | Central, lively area with cafes, shops, and waterfront proximity. | $500 – $1,500 | 15,000 – 45,000 |
| Karşıyaka | A quiet residential area across the bay, good transportation links. | $400 – $1,200 | 12,000 – 36,000 |
| Bornova | Student-friendly, affordable housing, lively scene, good amenities. | $350 – $1,000 | 10,500 – 30,000 |
| Buca | Suburban, family-friendly, affordable, quieter lifestyle. | $300 – $800 | 9,000 – 24,000 |
| Güzelyalı | Upscale beachfront neighborhood, luxury housing. | $800 – $2,000 | 24,000 – 60,000 |
| Balçova | Residential area with international schools, good for families. | $400 – $1,100 | 12,000 – 33,000 |
| Narlıdere | Convenient location, close to the city center and beaches. | $400 – $1,200 | 12,000 – 36,000 |
| Urla | Coastal town with a relaxed atmosphere, with beautiful nature. | $500 – $1,500 | 15,000 – 45,000 |
| Çeşme | Popular resort town, beaches, nightlife (high prices in summer). | $600 – $2,000 | 18,000 – 60,000 |
| Konak | Historical city center, cultural attractions, lively atmosphere. | $500 – $1,500 | 15,000 – 45,000 |
| Bayraklı | Affordable housing, good transportation links, limited amenities. | $300 – $800 | 9,000 – 24,000 |
| Güzelyalı | Upscale beachfront neighborhood, luxury housing. | $800 – $2,000 | 24,000 – 60,000 |
| Karabağlar | Affordable housing, good transportation links, limited amenities. | $300 – $800 | 9,000 – 24,000 |
Health Insurance While Living in Izmir Turkey
Having comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended when visiting Saudi Arabia to protect against any unexpected incidents. SafetyWing is an excellent option tailored to global travelers and digital nomads.
Why Choose SafetyWing?
SafetyWing makes travel insurance easy and affordable at just $45 – $250/month. Here are some key reasons to consider it:
- Global coverage including exotic destinations
- Flexible policies fit nomadic lifestyles
- Easy sign-up and claims from phone/computer
- Covers medical, evacuations, disruptions, baggage, etc.
- 24/7 customer support anywhere
- Customizable coverage amounts and add-ons
Other Travel Insurance Options
While SafetyWing is a top choice, companies like WorldNomads, Cigna Global, and IMG also offer comprehensive travel insurance for Izmir Turkey. Typical policies range from $45 – $500 for 2 weeks to a month of coverage. Compare coverage and premium costs.
Some key considerations for finding a good insurance policy:
- Emergency medical and evacuation
- Trip cancellation/interruption
- Lost/delayed baggage
- Adventure sports coverage
- Altitude sickness coverage
- 24/7 emergency assistance
Izmir Turkey Insurance Cost Estimates
| Insurance Plan | Trip Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| SafetyWing | 1 month | $45 – $250 |
| WorldNomads | 2 weeks | $100 – $200 |
| Cigna Global | 1 month | $150 – $300 |
| IMG | 2 weeks | $150 – $250 |
Living in Izmir Turkey As an Expat Overall
Living in Izmir as an expat offers a blend of modern amenities, rich culture, and a very affordable cost of living, making it an attractive destination for those wanting a comfortable lifestyle in a vibrant city with a Mediterranean flair.
You can expect a monthly budget between $800 – $1,200 (24,000 – 36,000) in Izmir, Turkey depending on your lifestyle.
Basic Utilities:
- Around $50 – $200 (1,500 – 6,000 TRY) per month.
- This includes electricity, water, gas, and internet.
- Air conditioning costs are extra during hot summers.
Food:
- Groceries are around $200 – $350 (6,000 – 10,500 TRY) for one or two people.
- Eating out costs around $5 – $15 (150 – 450 TRY) per meal at local restaurants.
- If you eat out frequently it can cost as much as $300 – $500 (9,000 – 15,000 TRY) per month.
Housing:
- Rent for nice 1-2 bedroom apartments averages $400 – $600 (12,000 – 18,000 TRY) per month.
- Upscale 3-4 bedroom serviced apartments or houses cost $700 – $1,700 (21,000 – 51,000 TRY) per month.
- Short-term accommodations are $300 – $400 (9,000 – 12,000 TRY) per month.
Healthcare:
- Healthcare in Turkey overall provides high-quality medical services and hospitals at very affordable prices compared to the US and Western Europe, making it attractive for expats.
- Private healthcare and insurance runs around $100 – $300 (3,000 – 9,000 TRY) per month.
- Consider travel insurance like SafetyWing or WorldNomads with plans starting at $45 (1,350 TRY) per month.
Lifestyle, Culture, and Recreation:
- Best Activities: Exploring the ancient ruins, visiting museums, enjoying the beaches, and participating in outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
- Nightlife: Lively nightlife scene in areas like Alsancak and Kordon, with bars, clubs, and live music venues.
- Local Culture: Attending cultural events, festivals, and visiting local markets like the Kemeralti Bazaar.
- Recreational Activities: Water sports, sailing, golfing, and exploring the nearby Aegean coastal towns.
Food in Izmir:
- Groceries for Family of 4: Around $300 – $600 (9,000 – 18,000 TRY) per month for basics plus some imported items.
- Dining Out: The average meal cost is $5 – $15 (150 – 450 TRY) at inexpensive restaurants. Can dine out affordably 2-3 times per week.
- Street Food: Try local street food like Kumru (a sandwich with grilled meat and vegetables, $2 – $4 / 60 – 120 TRY),
- Döner Kebab ($2 – $5 / 60 – 150 TRY)
- Midye Dolma (stuffed mussels, $3 – $6 / 90 – 180 TRY).
Transport in Izmir:
- Consider a car rental for $200 – $500 (6,000 – 15,000 TRY) per month.
- A 10-kilometer ride in Izmir might cost around $3 – $5 (90 – 150 TRY), or around 1 – 2 TRY per km for taxis.
- Spend $100 – $200 (3,000 – 6,000 TRY) on gas per month, on average. Gas costs 6 – 8 TRY per gallon (around $5 – $6).
- Public transport options include metro, buses, and ferries, costing $0.50 – $2 (15 – 60 TRY) per ride.
- A used car can cost $5,000 – $15,000 (150,000 – 450,000 TRY).
Misc Costs + Shopping: May spend around $50 – $200 (1,500 – 6,000 TRY) per month.
Pros:
- Lower cost of living compared to many Western countries.
- High-quality healthcare at affordable prices.
- Rich culture, history, and beautiful natural surroundings.
- Warm, Mediterranean climate.
- Friendly locals and vibrant expat community.
Cons:
- Language barrier for non-Turkish speakers.
- Traffic congestion in city centers.
- Air pollution levels in some areas.
- Cultural differences may require adjustment.
Best Cities in Izmir Turkey for Families, Singles, Retirees
Tailored recommendations for different lifestyles, catering to families, singles, and retirees in Izmir Turkey.
| Group | Best Places in Izmir, Turkey | Why It’s Best |
|---|---|---|
| Families | Buca, Balçova, Karşıyaka | Quieter residential areas, affordable housing, good international schools, family-friendly amenities |
| Singles | Alsancak, Kordon, Bornova | Lively social scene, nightlife, dining options, vibrant student life in Bornova |
| Retirees | Güzelyalı, Urla, Çeşme | Upscale and beachfront living, relaxed atmosphere, access to coastal towns and nature |
Additional Tips:
- Families: Buca, Balçova, and Karşıyaka are great options for families due to their quieter residential neighborhoods, affordable housing options, and the presence of good international schools. These areas offer a family-friendly environment with parks, playgrounds, and access to amenities.
- Singles: Alsancak and Kordon are ideal for singles as they offer a vibrant social scene, numerous cafes, bars, restaurants, and nightlife options. Bornova, with its large student population, also provides a lively atmosphere and various entertainment options perfect for young professionals and singles.
- Retirees: Güzelyalı, Urla, and Çeşme are excellent choices for retirees seeking a more relaxed and upscale lifestyle. These areas offer beachfront living, access to coastal towns and natural surroundings, and tons of amenities nearby for retirees. The mild climate and scenic beauty also make these locations attractive for those wanting a comfortable retirement.
Tips on Moving Banking and Finding Housing in Izmir Turkey
Here are helpful tips on finding accommodations, navigating the housing market, Moving your stuff, and making the most of your budget in Izmir Turkey.
| Tips on Living in Izmir Turkey | Tips for Expats | Resources |
|---|---|---|
| Finding Housing | Research neighborhoods, consider short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb or local listing website | Sahibinden.com Airbnb.com |
| Shipping Belongings | Research international shipping companies such as SDC International Shipping for assistance with relocating belongings. | SDC International Shipping |
| Banking and Money Transfers | Open a bank account in Turkey, consider using international money transfer services like Wise for cost-effective currency exchange and transfers. | Wise |
| Visas | Familiarize yourself with Turkish visa requirements and application procedures. Visit the official website for visa info provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. | Visa Info |
Here is a list of local apartment rental websites, Government resources for Visas, Facebook Groups, Tourism Boards, and more to help you with your potential move here.
Expat Facebook Groups:
Turkey Tourism Board:
Turkey Data Sites:
Embassy of Turkey:
Turkey Local Rental Websites:
- Sahibinden.com (local site)
- Airbnb
- For exchanging money use Wise Which is the best option if you are a digital nomad and Expat. a cheaper option to send and receive money internationally rather than exchanging money through other platforms like Paypal, Payoneer costs a lot of money for exchange fees and rates
- Booking Flights: To Find insane flight deals, search on Google Flights, and Skyscanner and choose the monthly option to find the best day to fly.
Conclusion Of The Best Cities And Places To Live In Izmir Turkey
Izmir, the pearl of the Aegean, offers a unique blend of cosmopolitan flair and traditional Turkish charm, making it a perfect destination for expats looking to experience a high quality of life.
From the bustling central neighborhoods like Alsancak and Kordon to the laid-back coastal havens of Güzelyalı and Çeşme, Izmir has a diverse range of living options to cater to various lifestyles and preferences.
Whether you’re a family seeking a safe environment, a single professional craving a vibrant social scene, or a retiree craving a peaceful beachfront retreat, Izmir’s neighborhoods have something in store for everyone.
With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and an abundance of modern amenities, this city promises an unforgettable expat experience.
Take the time to explore the distinct character of each neighborhood, immerse yourself in the local culture, and embrace the kindness of Turkish hospitality.
Even if you decide to lay your roots in one area you are still free to explore the many other great neighborhoods that exist.
Overall, Izmir’s welcoming spirit and vibrant expat community will make you feel right at home in this enchanting corner of the world.
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