Data updated Oct 8, 2026
Best fit: Digital Nomad (score: 79)
Ankara sits at 938 meters above sea level in the heart of Turkey, a sprawling capital of 5.8 million people with a continental climate that brings cold, snowy winters and hot, dry summers. The city is a political and administrative hub, but its expat life clusters in a few well-defined neighborhoods. Çankaya, Gaziosmanpaşa, and Oran are the popular choices, offering a mix of modern apartments, tree-lined streets, and easy access to the city's cafes and restaurants. While not as internationally famous as Istanbul, Ankara's slower pace and lower costs make it an appealing base for those who want a functional, less chaotic Turkish city experience.
Living here is notably affordable, especially when compared to major Western cities. A single adult can manage on a budget tier total of $603/mo, while a mid-range tier comes to $1,007/mo and a comfortable tier runs $1,315/mo, all including rent. Rent itself is reasonable: a one-bedroom in the city center averages $761/mo, dropping to $572/mo outside the center, while a three-bedroom in the center costs $1,160/mo and $888/mo outside. The average monthly net salary is $1,086/mo, which means locals and expats alike find their money stretching further than in many capitals. Everyday costs are low: an inexpensive restaurant meal is $10, a cappuccino is $4, a monthly public transport pass is $12, and utilities run about $94/mo. Internet is $18/mo, a mobile plan is $11/mo, and a gym membership is $72/mo. The overall cost of living index sits at 43 out of 100 relative to New York City, reinforcing the sense of value.
Safety is a strong point for Ankara. The safety index is 72/100, and the crime index is a low 28/100, indicating a generally secure environment for residents and visitors. Healthcare quality is rated as good, and the city has a solid medical infrastructure, which is a key consideration for retirees and families. English is widely spoken, making day-to-day navigation easier for newcomers, and the expat community, while medium in size, is active enough to provide support and social opportunities. The air quality index is 75, which is moderate, so those with respiratory sensitivities may want to monitor conditions, especially in winter.
For those considering a longer stay, Turkey offers two main visa pathways. The Turkey Short-Term Residence Permit requires a minimum monthly income of $773/mo, making it accessible for retirees and remote workers with modest savings. The Turkey Digital Nomad Visa, on the other hand, requires a minimum monthly income of $3,000/mo, catering to higher-earning freelancers and remote employees. The nearest airport is ANK, just 10 km from the city, providing convenient international connections. Ankara suits a wide range of people: digital nomads score it 81/100, FIRE seekers 79/100, and retirees 66/100. With its low living costs, good safety, and practical visa options, it is a compelling choice for those who want a comfortable, budget-friendly base in Turkey without the crowds of the coast.
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Ankara at the budget tier comes to about $883 a month for one adult, with $572 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $94.00 on groceries, $41.00 on dining out, $41.00 on entertainment and lifestyle, $123 on utilities and connectivity and $12.00 on transport.
Rent
$572/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$94.00/mo
75% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$41.00/mo
4 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$41.00/mo
1 cinema trip, 8 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$123/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$12.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Ankara at the mid-range tier comes to about $1,071 a month for one adult, with $572 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $125 on groceries, $102 on dining out, $137 on entertainment and lifestyle, $123 on utilities and connectivity and $12.00 on transport.
Rent
$572/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$125/mo
Staples basket scaled to a full month
Dining out
$102/mo
10 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$137/mo
gym, 2 cinema trips, 12 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$123/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$12.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Ankara at the comfortable tier comes to about $1,446 a month for one adult, with $761 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $175 on groceries, $189 on dining out, $186 on entertainment and lifestyle, $123 on utilities and connectivity and $12.00 on transport.
Rent
$761/mo
1BR in the centre
Groceries
$175/mo
140% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$189/mo
6 inexpensive meals + 6 mid-range meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$186/mo
gym, 4 cinema trips, 20 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$123/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$12.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Estimates for one adult, built from this city's average prices and the usage shown for each tier. Your spending will differ with how often you eat out and where you live.
A 1BR in the center runs about $760.78/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.
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See how Ankara's cost of living compares with Esenyurt
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Ankara feels notably safer than many comparable Middle Eastern capitals. Daytime walkability is good in central districts like Çankaya and Kızılay, with visible police presence and orderly traffic. Nighttime safety is reasonable in well-lit, populated areas, though solo evening walks aren't universally recommended. The city's bureaucratic character and large expat community contribute to a relatively stable, predictable atmosphere compared to its reputation.
Petty theft and pickpocketing occur in crowded markets (Çıkrıkçılar Bazaar) and public transport, particularly during rush hours. Scams targeting foreigners are uncommon but possible in tourist areas. Violent crime against expats is rare. Women travelers report feeling safer here than in some regional peers, though standard precautions apply—avoid displaying wealth, use registered taxis or apps like Uber, and exercise caution in peripheral neighborhoods after dark.
Turkey's political environment is complex; while Ankara itself experiences minimal protest activity compared to Istanbul, demonstrations can occur with little warning. Police are generally professional and responsive to expat concerns, though corruption exists at lower bureaucratic levels. The city poses no acute geopolitical threat to American residents. Overall, Ankara is a reasonable choice for expats seeking stability—safer than its regional reputation suggests, though not without petty crime concerns typical of large capitals.
See how Ankara's healthcare compares with Esenyurt
Continental climate with cold, snowy winters and hot, dry summers.
A dynamic city with a growing digital nomad community and diverse opportunities.
| Name | Notes |
|---|---|
| Workinton Ankara | Workinton has multiple locations in Ankara, offering a professional environment with various membership options. They are known for their modern design, reliable internet, and business support services, making them a solid choice for expats needing a dependable workspace in central locations. |
| Regus Ankara | Regus offers several coworking locations throughout Ankara, providing a consistent and reliable experience. They offer a range of options from hot desks to private offices, with standard amenities like meeting rooms and administrative support, suitable for remote workers seeking a familiar international brand. |
| Kolektif House Ankara | Located in the Next Level shopping mall, Kolektif House offers a vibrant and modern coworking space. It features a community-focused atmosphere, regular events, and a stylish design, appealing to digital nomads looking for a social and collaborative environment. |
| Impact Hub Ankara | Part of the global Impact Hub network, this Ankara location focuses on social impact and innovation. It's a great option for remote workers interested in connecting with a community of entrepreneurs and changemakers, offering a collaborative and purpose-driven workspace. |
Names, locations and hours can change. Check each space's website before you visit. Places from © OpenStreetMap contributors and Foursquare Open Source Places (Apache 2.0).
Planning to live in Ankara long-term? Turkey Digital Nomad Visa lets remote workers live legally with a minimum income of $3,000/month.
View full requirements →Working remotely from Ankara? Nomad health insurance covers you across borders, month to month.
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See how Ankara's digital nomad life compares with Esenyurt
The capital of Turkey is a diplomatic and academic center. It is more organized and quiet than Istanbul but more conservative.
Areas of Ankara that expats often consider.
Conditions can change from one block to the next, and these descriptions are general guides, not safety assessments. Before choosing where to stay or live, check current travel advisories, talk to people who live there, and visit in person if you can.
Central, upscale, diplomatic hub
Çankaya is Ankara's most international district, home to many embassies and international organizations. It offers a wide range of amenities, including restaurants, cafes, and shopping centers catering to expats. While convenient, it can be pricier than other areas and experience heavy traffic.
Lively, student-friendly, affordable
A vibrant area popular with students and young professionals, Bahçelievler offers a more local experience with numerous cafes, bars, and shops. It's well-connected by public transport and generally more affordable than Çankaya. Expect a younger, more energetic atmosphere.
Trendy, modern, entertainment district
GOP is known for its upscale restaurants, bars, and nightlife. It's a popular choice for expats seeking a modern and lively environment. Rent tends to be higher, and it can get noisy, especially on weekends.
Residential, quiet, family-oriented
Yenimahalle is a large residential district offering a more authentic Turkish living experience. It's quieter and more affordable than central areas, making it suitable for retirees or those seeking a slower pace. English may not be widely spoken, requiring some Turkish language skills.
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $761/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.
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