Living in Ankara
Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)
Country
Turkey
Monthly Cost
$1,133
Internet
80 Mbps
Safety
6.1/10
Rent (1BR)
$728
Living in Ankara — Quick Take
Best for: Remote workers seeking value
Cost level: Low ($1,133/mo)
Main downside: Bureaucracy can be slow
Quick Facts
$1,133/mo
Low6.1/10
Average80 Mbps
Fast$728
Cheap$1,088/mo
5.9M
Major CityMonthly Living Cost Breakdown
Who Is Ankara For?
Reasonable costs and workable internet make it practical for remote work.
Housing availability and security make family relocation feasible.
Budget-wise, $1,133/month is competitive globally.
Retirement here is feasible given the safety and expense levels.
Want more amenities? Krakow offers a higher standard.
Best Neighborhoods in Ankara
4 neighborhoods rated for expats and digital nomads — Çankaya tops the list at /10
Çankaya is Ankara’s most prestigious and international district, known for embassies, diplomatic residences, and top-tier universities. It offers a high-quality urban lifestyle with cafes, restaurants, international schools, and easy access to business and government institutions, making it a top choice for expats and professionals.
Neighborhood ratings based on expat livability, cost, and lifestyle fit. Data reflects current conditions in Ankara, Turkey.
Pros and Cons of Living in Ankara
Pros
- Very affordable cost of living - ideal for budget-conscious expats
- Generally safe for expats with normal precautions
- Adequate internet speed for most remote work needs
- Very affordable rent for 1-bedroom apartments
Cons
- No major drawbacks identified based on available data
Job & Income Overview
Avg Local Salary
$1,088/mo
Salary-to-Rent Ratio
1.5x
The salary-to-rent picture isn't great—many expats rely on foreign income sources.
On a local salary alone, making ends meet is tight. Remote work or savings bridge the gap.
Cost Insight
For those watching expenses, Ankara delivers. It's among the cheaper places to base yourself.
Housing takes up most of your budget here—about 64% of total costs. The rest is relatively cheap.
That's 237% cheaper than Krakow at $3,823/month.
Common Questions About Ankara
How much does it cost to live in Ankara?
About $1,133/month for one person. Actual costs vary based on habits and neighborhood.
Is Ankara safe for expats?
Ankara is reasonably safe with normal precautions with a 6.1/10 safety score. Standard precautions apply.
Is Ankara good for remote workers?
With 80 Mbps average speeds, Ankara is excellent for remote work. Coworking options exist.
How much is rent in Ankara?
A 1-bedroom averages $728/month. Prices vary by neighborhood and proximity to center.
Calculate Your Cost in Ankara
Get personalized estimates based on your lifestyle
Explore More About Ankara
NomadIQ Score
out of 10
Very Good
Quick Stats
Safety Score
6.1/10
Internet Speed
80 Mbps
Monthly Cost
$1,133
Explore Similar Cities
Final Thoughts
Ankara is a solid choice for those seeking a change of scenery looking to relocate abroad. With a monthly cost of living around $1,133, a safety score of 6.1/10, and internet speeds of 80 Mbps, the city offers a balanced package for international residents. Whether you're drawn by the culture, the cost savings, or the lifestyle opportunities, Ankara deserves a spot on your shortlist. We recommend visiting for a few weeks before making a long-term commitment to ensure it aligns with your personal and professional needs.
Data sources include public cost-of-living datasets, user-reported data, and internal analysis. Last updated: August 2026.
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