Living in Alanya: the ultimate expat guide

Alanya's economy is driven primarily by tourism, real estate, and services. The city welcomes nearly 2.5 million tourists annually, creating substantial employment in hospitality, travel agencies, and related industries. Foreigners with language skills find opportunities in hotels, tour companies, and international businesses catering to the expat community.

Work Permits and Employment

Foreign nationals must obtain a work permit through the Turkish Ministry of Labour before starting employment. Employers must sponsor applications and meet a 5:1 ratio of Turkish to foreign employees. The minimum salary for foreign workers in 2025 is TRY 26,005.50 gross monthly (approximately USD 720). Many expats work remotely for international companies or run their own businesses in tourism-related sectors.

Key Employment Indicators

Sources: Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK), Ministry of Labour and Social Security

Alanya has developed into a growing academic hub with two universities offering programs for international students. Both institutions provide English-taught courses and support services for foreign enrollees.

Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University (ALKÜ)

ALKÜ is a state university established in 2015 with over 10,000 students. It offers programs across 8 faculties including Medicine, Engineering, Business, and Tourism. Tuition for international students ranges from TRY 9,000 to TRY 70,800 annually depending on the program. The university accepts SAT, ACT, International Baccalaureate, and YÖS exam results for admissions.

Alanya University (Private)

Founded in 2011, this private institution hosts approximately 1,000 students, with 26% international enrollment from 27 countries. Programs are offered in 100% English across Architecture, Engineering, and Business faculties. The university ranks 32nd in Türkiye according to RUR 2024 and provides scholarships for qualified applicants.

Sources: ALKÜ Official Website, Alanya University, Study in Türkiye

Alanya has emerged as one of Türkiye's fastest-growing retirement destinations, attracting pensioners seeking affordable coastal living with quality healthcare and an established expat community.

Residence Permits for Retirees

Retirees can obtain a short-term residence permit valid for up to 2 years, renewable indefinitely. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources (minimum 1.5 times the Turkish minimum wage monthly) and hold private health insurance for the first year. After 8 years of continuous residence, foreigners qualify for long-term permanent residence.

Healthcare Options

Türkiye's SGK (Social Security Institution) provides universal health coverage after one year of residence, with monthly premiums around TRY 800 (USD 22). Private health insurance remains affordable, typically USD 100–200 monthly for comprehensive coverage. Alanya has modern private hospitals with English-speaking staff, including Alanya Private Hospital and various specialist clinics.

Sources: Directorate General of Migration Management, Social Security Institution (SGK)

Alanya provides diverse educational options for expatriate families. Children can attend Turkish public schools (free but taught in Turkish) or choose from several private and international institutions offering instruction in English and other languages.

International and Private Schools

Several private schools serve the international community. International Alanya College (IAC) follows the Cambridge International curriculum with English instruction. Alanya Bahçeşehir College offers both Turkish and international programs with strong STEM focus. TED Alanya College provides education from kindergarten through high school with English-language instruction.

Enrollment and Fees

Foreign children need a residence permit and translated academic records for enrollment. Private school fees range from TRY 120,000 to TRY 200,000 annually (USD 3,300–5,500). Preschools cost approximately TRY 4,500–6,000 monthly. The academic year runs from September to June, following the Turkish Ministry of Education calendar.

Sources: Turkish Ministry of Education

Alanya offers diverse housing options from modern apartments to luxury villas. Property prices vary significantly by location, with beachfront areas commanding premium rates while inland neighborhoods offer better value.

Popular Expat Neighbourhoods

Mahmutlar is the most popular area among foreigners, known for affordable housing, developed infrastructure, and a large international community. Oba attracts families seeking a quieter atmosphere with excellent schools and parks. Cikcilli offers modern developments close to the city center. Kestel and Kargicak provide peaceful settings with stunning sea views for those seeking privacy.

Rental Prices

The rental market remains accessible compared to Western standards. Expect to pay approximately TRY 15,000–20,000 monthly (USD 415–550) for a one-bedroom apartment, and TRY 25,000–40,000 (USD 690–1,100) for a three-bedroom unit. Furnished apartments near the beach command higher rates.

Sources: Numbeo, LivingCost.org

Alanya offers abundant leisure opportunities combining historical exploration, outdoor activities, and vibrant social life. The city caters to diverse interests from beach relaxation to adventure sports.

Historical and Cultural Attractions

Alanya Castle dominates the peninsula, featuring 6.5 km of walls dating to the 13th-century Seljuk era. The Red Tower (Kızıl Kule) and historic shipyard (Tersane) showcase medieval maritime heritage. The Alanya Archaeological Museum displays artifacts spanning millennia. Damlataş Cave attracts visitors for its stalactites and reputed health benefits.

Beaches and Outdoor Activities

Cleopatra Beach ranks among Türkiye's finest, with golden sand and clear waters. Water sports include parasailing, jet skiing, and paddleboarding. The Dim River offers riverside dining and boat trips. Hiking trails in the Taurus Mountains provide cooler escapes during summer months.

Entertainment and Nightlife

The city center offers numerous restaurants, cafés, and bars. Annual events include the Alanya International Triathlon, cultural festivals, and the Presidential Cycling Tour of Türkiye. Sealanya waterpark and go-kart facilities provide family entertainment.

Sources: Alanya Municipality, Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism

Daily life in Alanya blends Mediterranean relaxation with modern convenience. The city offers reliable public transport, abundant shopping options, and a pace of life that appeals to both active professionals and retirees.

Getting Around

The dolmuş (shared minibus) network forms the backbone of local transport, running fixed routes throughout the city and surrounding areas. A single ride costs approximately TRY 20 (USD 0.55). City buses require a rechargeable Kentkart. The Alanya Cable Car connects Damlataş Beach to Alanya Castle, offering scenic transport and tourist appeal. Gazipaşa Airport lies 42 km away, providing domestic and international connections.

Lifestyle and Culture

Residents enjoy fresh produce from local markets, numerous restaurants serving Turkish and international cuisine, and easy access to beaches. The city maintains a relaxed atmosphere year-round, though summer months bring increased tourist activity. Many expats appreciate the café culture, outdoor dining, and the friendly integration between locals and international residents. Basic Turkish phrases help daily interactions, though English is widely understood in tourist areas.

Alanya offers a significantly lower cost of living compared to Western Europe, North America, and Australia. Your monthly expenses will depend on lifestyle choices, housing location, and family size.

Monthly Budget: Single Person

A single person can live comfortably on approximately USD 900–1,200 monthly, excluding rent. This covers groceries, utilities, transport, and leisure activities.

Monthly Budget: Family of Four

Sources: Numbeo, LivingCost.org