Retiring and owning a home in Antalya, Turkey

When Manchester native Stephen Wright moved to Antalya 20 years ago, there was little information about what to expect when living abroad and in Turkey. So the retiree packed up his life and boarded the plane with memories of his previous vacation to Turkey. We asked Stephen about his experience — and his top tips for retiring in the Antalya region. As I approached retirement, I researched which country would best compare my pension to global income, he said.

Housing prices and cost of living in Antalya are very low, and I've been here before I realized I could live comfortably. In addition, other aspects such as natural beauty, destinations for expats, easy access to Antalya airport, the city's long beaches, ancient ruins, and opportunities to explore other cities also received attention. So I bought a one-way ticket and started a new life in Antalya, Turkey.

Buying or renting real estate and residence visas

I immediately bought an apartment, a two-bedroom property, in Side Antalya near the beach. Other expats have rented houses in the city, but as a person I don't want to move twice and I'm sure I'm doing the right thing. When I moved, it took a long time to apply for a short-term residence permit, luckily the rules changed. Owners are entitled to a one-year residence permit and the process is relatively straightforward.

Then update it every year. With immediate effect, tenants will initially receive a six-month residence permit in Turkey. The cost of a residence visa varies by region, but the online appointment system provides information on the cost and the documents that need to be submitted. I should add that the rules for obtaining a residence permit seem to be changing all the time, but most expats stay tuned and you should too. If you decide to rent, be sure to sign a rental agreement and compare the cost of living in the various regions of Antalya.

Private Health Insurance in Turkey

When I first arrived in Antalya, I bought private health insurance in Turkey, but it was very expensive to renew at 65. Luckily, there is statutory health insurance SGK [Social Insurance Agency] and I was able to join. The program is voluntary and does not cover pre-existing conditions, so consider carefully. There are many good hospitals and health centers in Antalya, and there are no waiting times to see a doctor or have an operation.

Health insurance costs vary, and some retirees buy private insurance for those over 55. Healthcare in Turkey is very good. Izmir, in the Aegean region of the country, is known as a health specialist because of its university. Additionally, many tourists come to Turkey for cheaper health treatments, such as dental work or hair transplants.

Getting a UK Pension in Turkey

Although costs have increased since moving 13 years ago, I cannot maintain the Turkish lifestyle I now live in Manchester. I eat out a lot and go to the local weekly market to buy cheap fruits and vegetables. The biggest expense I paid was airfare back to the UK for half a year to visit family, son and three grandchildren.

Unfortunately cars and fuel are more expensive than in the UK. I drive but prefer to use a cheap and frequent dolmus to get around. In later years, the cost of drinking and smoking increased dramatically, especially compared to Turkey's minimum wage. But in general, my cost of living is low and my salary is low, especially compared to other countries.

The challenging side of life in Antalya, Turkey

Learning Turkish is a struggle. I'm getting used to everyday life now, but everyday life, like going to the bank, wasn't easy at first. However, more and more Turks speak fluent English, especially in the center of Antalya. Also, bureaucracy can make you feel uneasy at times. It never seems to make sense, and often two people perform their duties.

Benefits of Living in Antalya, Turkey

As everyone has said, unbeatable lifestyle, low cost of living, constant sunshine - I wear shorts and a t-shirt most of the year - friendly people, easy transport, good healthcare - —Living here is very different than where I have grown up and worked my whole life. Antalya is a quiet place to live with an extremely low crime rate. There was the odd burglary, and as with most touristy areas, there were a few scammers, but the locals were quick to chase them away. Overall, Antalya is a safe place to live.

Leisure facilities in Antalya

I've taken up golf. Belek is a world-class golf center and Antalya is the starting point of the famous Lycian Route. I'm not agile enough to ski, but my sons and their families visit me in the winter and enjoy ski vacations. I joined an expat book club and a hiking club. Otherwise, I love beach cafes and watching sunsets in the summer. I bought another apartment that I rent out and manage, so it's been a busy summer. Apart from that, there are so many leisure facilities that you will never be bored. It is easy to make friends between expats and Turks. It's also easy to get to many city centers along the coast of Antalya, and I love exploring other expat and holiday destinations.

Financial Implications of Moving to Turkey

Make sure to cancel all standing orders and direct debits at home, and consider downsizing or consolidating your accounts to minimize costs. Open a bank account in Turkey for daily funds and living expenses. Retirees are subject to vagaries of switching costs. Currently, Turkey is doing much better than the Eurozone countries. Also check your tax status, my UK pension is not taxed but not sure about other nationalities. Lastly, remember to plan your money carefully and consider the Turkish lira, not your home currency, when purchasing goods.

When you retire abroad, you do things differently

I will learn a little more Turkish so I can speak more confidently. Also, I would not have shipped my furniture had I known that furniture and household items were cheaper in Turkey. I had some problems with customs and had to pay some taxes. The time and effort involved is exasperating. If I were moving again, I'd take as much as I could on the plane and either buy new furniture or pick up old stuff from people who were going abroad. After all, many people don't realize how hot the weather can be in summer. At noon in July and August, the temperature is almost too hot. Therefore, some expats prefer to return to their home countries during this period. (Pros and cons of living abroad.)

Thoughts on Antalya city center

In my opinion, out of all the cities in Turkey, the city center of Antalya is the most livable city. Cities are often monotonous and fast-paced, but Antalya offers a unique lifestyle for expats and is a great holiday destination. A lot of content revolves around the best beaches in Turkey, Konyaalti and Lara.

Also, the history and old town are great. I love exploring the downtown areas of Kaleici and Hadrian's Gate because every corner tells a story from history. Of course, historical sites can't compete with the larger city of Istanbul, but that's the appeal. The city is a tourist hotspot with the best nightlife and shopping in Turkey's Mediterranean region. About the center of Antalya.

More Information About Retirement in Turkey

Antalya is the second most popular place in Turkey for expats to live, vacation and buy property. But of course, Istanbul comes out on top. Divided into continental Asia and Europe, Istanbul does not attract those looking to retire in Turkey, but often expats looking to live in Turkey. Istanbul is also number one for real estate investors in the country. Apart from this, many expats in Turkey head to tourist destinations such as Didim, Bodrum, Marmaris, Izmir and Fethiye after retirement. Read our moving to Turkey guide.

Final thoughts on living in Antalya

We are Property Superiors, we not only sell properties in Turkey, we also provide retirement advice abroad and help many clients move to Turkey. Some want to retire and enjoy life in Turkey; others want to invest by buying real estate. With offices in all tourist destinations across the country, including Antalya, our local agents have extensive knowledge and expertise to help anyone thinking of retiring abroad, or if you have questions about cost of living, real estate Questions about prices and rental costs, health care, etc. Alternatively, view our portfolio of apartments and villas for sale in the Antalya area. Then contact us to learn more about this home, arrange a viewing or have any other questions about how to retire in Antalya.