Moving to Turkey
Complete relocation guide
Moving Checklist
Before & after arrival
Relocation Timeline
Week-by-week what to expect
Cost of Living
Budgets across major cities
Healthcare in Turkey
Insurance, SGK, hospitals
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Cost of Living Comparison
Turkey vs Netherlands
Cost of Living (2026)
The Netherlands has some of Europe's highest living costs. Turkey is 55–70% cheaper — here's what Dutch expats actually save.
Quick Answer
Turkey is 55–70% cheaper than the Netherlands. Rent is 75–80% cheaper. Dutch AOW pension recipients in Turkey are subject to 15% Dutch withholding tax — check with a tax specialist before moving. Antalya and the Aegean coast are the most popular destinations for Dutch expats.
AOW Pension Tax Warning
The Netherlands-Turkey tax treaty applies a 15% Dutch withholding tax on AOW pension payments to Turkish residents. This is different from the treatment under some other treaties. Consult a Dutch tax specialist or the SVB (Social Insurance Bank) before moving to understand your specific situation.
Not sure if the 20-Year Exemption applies to you?
The exemption does not apply automatically. Take the 60-second eligibility check before relying on exemption-based tax examples.
Educational only — not tax or legal advice.
Category Comparison
| Category | Netherlands | Turkey (coastal) | Saving |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent — 1-bed city centre | €1,200–2,000/mo | €200–450/mo | 75–80% cheaper |
| Rent — 1-bed outside centre | €900–1,500/mo | €150–320/mo | 75–80% cheaper |
| Monthly groceries | €300–450 | €150–250 | 40–50% cheaper |
| Restaurant meal (mid-range) | €15–25 | €5–12 | 52–60% cheaper |
| Coffee at café | €3.50–5 | €1.50–3 | 40–50% cheaper |
| Monthly transport pass | €80–150 | €25–60 | 55–70% cheaper |
| Health insurance | €130–170/mo (basic + own risk) | €35–80/mo | 50–65% cheaper |
| Utilities (electric, water, gas) | €200–350/mo | €60–120/mo | 60–70% cheaper |
| Childcare costs | €800–1,200/mo | €150–400/mo | 65–75% cheaper |
Sunshine Comparison
Amsterdam
1,661
sun hours/year
İzmir
2,840
sun hours/year
Antalya
3,054
sun hours/year
Frequently Asked Questions
How much cheaper is Turkey than the Netherlands?
Turkey is 55–70% cheaper than the Netherlands overall. Rent is the biggest saving — 75–80% cheaper than Amsterdam or other Dutch cities. The Netherlands has some of Europe's highest housing costs, making Turkey's rent differential especially significant.
What happens to my Dutch pension (AOW) if I move to Turkey?
The Dutch state pension (AOW) is paid regardless of where you live. However, the Netherlands applies a 15% withholding tax on AOW payments to residents of Turkey under the Netherlands-Turkey tax treaty. This is a notable difference from some other countries. The Turkish-sourced income tax may also apply if you're a Turkish resident. Consult a tax specialist before moving if you receive AOW.
How does Turkey compare to the Netherlands for weather?
Turkey offers dramatically better weather for most Dutch expats. The Netherlands averages 1,600 sunshine hours per year; Antalya averages 3,000+. Turkish coastal cities enjoy warm weather from April through November. This 'climate arbitrage' is as important to many Dutch expats as the financial savings.
Are there many Dutch expats in Turkey?
Yes — the Netherlands has one of the largest Turkish diaspora communities in Europe, creating a bidirectional connection. Dutch expats in Turkey are primarily in coastal cities (Antalya, Bodrum, Fethiye) and Istanbul. There are established Dutch expat groups and some Dutch-language services in major expat areas.
Is Turkey cheaper than Spain or Portugal for Dutch expats?
Yes. Spain (especially the coast) and Portugal have seen significant price increases. Turkey remains consistently cheaper than both countries for rent and living costs. Turkey is typically 30–40% cheaper than comparable Spanish or Portuguese coastal towns, making it a strong alternative for cost-conscious Dutch expats.