Ankara, Turkey
Capital City

Follows Turkey Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$900
Retiree Score
95.0
Safety Index
58.4
Healthcare
84 facilities

While Ankara may be Turkey's bustling capital, the city's rapid growth since the 1920s has left it grappling with unplanned urban sprawl and a population of over 5.7 million. Though boasting an impressive array of ancient ruins, modern shopping malls, and green spaces like the Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo, Ankara's harsh continental climate and persistent bureaucratic headaches can make it a challenging place to call home. With its mix of historical charm and breakneck development, this city is best suited for those seeking an authentic Turkish experience, rather than a picturesque tourist destination.

Can I afford Ankara?

$

Ankara

You could save

2,100/mo

Savings Rate70%

Monthly Costs

Rent $450
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$450

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
70/100
Retiree Score
(i)
95/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
48/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Turkey Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
58
Safety
84
Healthcare
100
Walkability
100
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $1
Bread (loaf) *$1
Eggs (12) $2
Rice (1kg) *$2
Chicken (1kg) *$5

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$9
Meal (Mid-range) $101
Cappuccino $4
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $74
Mobile Plan (mo) $11
Gym (mo) *$55
Cinema Ticket $7

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $450
1BR Outside (mo) *$420
3BR Center (mo) $900
3BR Outside (mo) *$672

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Medium
Top Neighborhoods
Çankaya, Gaziosmanpaşa, Oran
Best For
diplomats, families

Expat Life Notes

The capital of Turkey is a diplomatic and academic center. It is more organized and quiet than Istanbul but more conservative.

Pros

  • Lower rent than Istanbul
  • Safe and family-friendly enclaves
  • Great schools and hospitals

Cons

  • Inland location (dry summers/cold winters)
  • Bureaucracy is heavy
  • Significant language barrier outside diplomats

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
Temperature
-3°C°C - 31°C°C
Annual Rainfall
538 mm
Coworking Spaces
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Oct

Also Consider

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Ankara

Click any question to expand the answer.

Ankara has a population of approximately 5,803,482 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $1,125 per month in Ankara, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $450/month.

The nearest airport to Ankara is ESB, approximately 25km away.

Ankara is considered moderate in terms of safety, with a safety index of 58.4. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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