Turkey: Affordable, Cultural, and Opportunity-Rich—Why It's a Smart Pick for UK Expats

1. Cost of Living: Exceptional Value for UK-Income Holders

Turkey offers substantial savings across everyday expenses compared to the UK:

• Overall, the cost of living—including rent—is approximately 46–49% lower than in the UK.Nomad Capitalist+13Numbeo+13Spot Blue+13

• In Istanbul specifically, living is even more affordable—65% cheaper than London, with housing costs down by 77–86%, food around 38–40% cheaper, and public transport over 80% cheaper.Expatistan, cost of living comparisons

• A practical benchmark: an 85 m² furnished apartment in a standard area may cost around £544/month in Turkey versus £1,667 in the UK.Immigrant Invest+13Expatistan, cost of living comparisons+13Expatistan, cost of living comparisons+13

• Another data source notes a single person can live on approximately $1,200/month, while a family of four might manage on $3,000/month—charting real-world affordability.Global Citizen Solutions+1

—

2. Healthcare: Accessible Options and Recognised Protections

• Expatriates generally opt for private healthcare, which is both affordable and high-quality—especially in major hubs like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir.Reuters+15Global Citizen Solutions+15Nomad Capitalist+15

• Employed expats can also pay into the Turkish Social Security Scheme (SGK), gaining access to public health benefits. Importantly, the Turkey–UK Double Taxation Agreement ensures fairness in financial contributions.GOV.UK+2Immigrant Invest+2

3. Visa & Residency: Flexible and Clear Pathways

• UK citizens can stay in Turkey for up to 90 days without a visa—after that, you’ll need to apply for a residence permit.Wise+1

• The Double Taxation Agreement between Turkey and the UK prevents income from being taxed twice, facilitating financial clarity.Immigrant Invest

4. Work, Income & Expat Experiences

• Some UK expats relocating for work retain their salary paid in pounds sterling, offering strong purchasing power—especially compared to local earnings.Reddit

• Expats frequently report that “if you manage your finances wisely, Turkey offers a higher standard of living than the UK.”Reddit

5. Culture, Lifestyle & Strategic Location

• Turkey offers a rich cultural mix, blending East and West—the lifestyle is dynamic, affordable, and deeply sociable.Nomad Capitalist

• It's strategically placed between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East—ideal for frequent travellers or business leaders targeting multiple regions.Nomad Capitalist

6. Potential Economic Challenges: What to Be Aware Of

• Recent reports reveal economic instability, with high inflation and currency volatility. Inflation has eased to around 40%, but structural reforms continue to be needed.ft.com

• Many Turkish citizens remain under financial strain—highlighting fluctuating purchasing power that expats should monitor.Reuters

• A cautionary tale: a British retiree in Kusadasi fell seriously ill, lacked appropriate insurance, and ultimately lost her home and savings due to enormous medical bills and absence of reciprocal healthcare agreements.The Sun+1

Why Legacy Is the Ideal Partner for Your Move to Turkey

Service FocusHow Legacy Supports YouBudget OptimizationWe model your UK income's real value in Turkey—housing, lifestyle, and unexpected needs.Healthcare StrategyFrom SGK contributions to private insurance, we help you set up strong, cost-effective coverage.Residency PlanningWe clarify visa requirements, residency permits, and help you structure finances under DTA benefits.Financial Risk ManagementWe guide you through economic signs, local legal frameworks, and insurance safeguards.Lifestyle & Location FitWhether Istanbul’s bustle or the Turkish Riviera's calm, we match your goals with the right region.

Bottom Line: Is Moving to Turkey Right for You?

• Yes, if you're looking for a richer lifestyle—thanks to lower costs, strategic location, and vibrant culture.

• Be prepared: Stay informed about economic developments, secure robust health coverage, and plan residency correctly.

• With Legacy by your side, you’ll move with foresight, clarity, and confidence—redefining your lifestyle intelligently.