Safety and Security: Turkey's "Safe City" Initiative

Turkey’s unique position, spanning two continents and bordered by sea on three sides, has made it a premier destination for global citizens. Whether you are seeking a high-tech smart city, a historic Mediterranean haven, or an affordable mountain retreat, Turkey’s diverse provinces offer a lifestyle for every budget.

As we move through 2026, the Turkish government continues to streamline immigration processes, particularly the $400,000 property purchase route for citizenship, attracting a steady flow of investors from the UK, Germany, Russia, and beyond.

1. Safety and Security: Turkey's "Safe City" Initiative

Urban safety is a paramount concern for modern expats. Turkey has invested heavily in "Safe City" solutions—integrated networks of AI-driven surveillance (MOBESE) and coordinated emergency responses to ensure peace of mind for residents.

Top 4 Safest Cities in Turkey

Eskişehir: Often called the "Student City," it is renowned for its vibrant riverfront, low crime rates, and aviation heritage.

Bursa: The industrial powerhouse of the Marmara region. It leads the country in crime prevention through extensive mobile police patrolling and high-tech surveillance.

Antalya: Boasting a safety score of 74.5%, this Mediterranean hub offers a secure environment despite its massive influx of international tourists.

İzmir: Turkey’s third-largest city is celebrated for its cultural sophistication and "liberal" safety, where local hospitality significantly lowers the social friction found in other metropolises.

2. Cost of Living and Economic Hubs

Turkey remains one of the most affordable countries in Europe. While the "metropolis premium" exists in Istanbul, secondary cities offer incredible value for money.

Comparison of Living Costs (2026 Estimates)

In terms of average monthly cost of living, Istanbul comes in at $623, placing it in the top 28% cheapest cities globally. İzmir offers a lower figure of $527, ranking in the top 19% cheapest. Bursa follows closely with $503, securing a spot in the top 17% cheapest. Antalya is even more affordable at $468, within the top 13% cheapest, while Şanlıurfa stands out as the most budget-friendly at $349, earning it a position in the top 2% cheapest worldwide.

For those prioritizing extreme affordability, Kayseri and Konya offer some of the lowest living costs globally, with average monthly expenses ranging between $330 and $385.

3. Best Destinations for Vacation and Retirement

Turkey’s geography allows for a unique "four-season" lifestyle. You can ski in the morning and enjoy a coastal breeze in the afternoon.

Featured Regions

The Aegean Coast (Muğla & İzmir): The epicenter of "laid-back" luxury. Muğla offers the historic Arasta Bazaar and some of the world’s best archaeological sites, including Ephesus.

The Mediterranean Coast (Antalya & Mersin): Known as the "Pearl of the Mediterranean," this region is ideal for retirees. Mersin, in particular, is a booming economic center home to the country’s largest port.

Marmara Region (Balıkesir & Bursa): These cities offer a mix of Ottoman heritage and modern industrial convenience. Balıkesir serves as a vital crossroads between Istanbul and İzmir.

4. Key Considerations for Your Move

Health Services

Turkey's medical infrastructure is JCI-accredited, offering high-quality, affordable care. It has become a global destination for specialized treatments, with doctors often handling a higher diversity of cases than those in the US or UK.

Real Estate Strategy

When moving to Turkey, you must choose between the "metropolitan hustle" and "coastal tranquility."

For Business: Istanbul or Ankara are the clear choices.

For Lifestyle/Retirement: Antalya, Muğla, or Mersin offer better value and a slower pace.