Living Year-Round in Southern Türkiye: Pros and Cons
Türkiye’s southern coastal holiday towns also serve as hot spots for a growing number of expats, primarily from European countries, who choose to live year-round in Türkiye.
Pro: Less Crowds, Easier Traffic
For many expats, especially those based in Bodrum, winter is among the most welcomed times of the year. The roads become much more accessible, while summer traffic can be a significant drawback in what has become, in many ways, a full-blown city. In the summer, almost every holiday town experiences traffic congestion, whereas in winter, the roads are much more relaxed, making it easier to run errands or socialize around town.
Con: Increased Construction Activity
Türkiye enforces a construction ban during summer, usually from June to September. However, those who visit in the winter may be surprised to find these towns bustling with construction activity, complete with trucks and noise. While traffic is lighter, the incessant drilling, pounding, and digging up of roads to lay utility pipes can also be a major inconvenience.
Pro: Wonderful Year-Round Weather
For many expats, the mild year-round weather is a major factor in their decision to move to southern Türkiye. Most days are sunny, with temperatures ranging from double digits Celsius to the mid-20s, making long walks or even swimming part of daily life. The winter months are also ideal for outdoor sports like hiking, biking, and kayaking.
Con: Venue Closures During Winter
With the exception of Antalya and Bodrum, many venues in these seaside towns close for the winter months, making some areas resemble ghost towns. This can be frustrating for year-round residents, as many of the restaurants and cafes that initially attracted them to these locations shut their doors from October or November until April.
Pro: Strong Expat Community
Winter is when the expat community truly comes together. From holiday markets and parties to weekly book clubs, quiz nights, and social gatherings, the winter offers many opportunities to socialize, exercise, or volunteer with local charity groups.
Con: Isolation in Remote Areas
If you live in a more remote area, winter can feel isolated due to reduced access to amenities and fewer people around. In some mountainous regions, transportation can become difficult during bad weather or when roads are closed.
Pro: Rich Cultural Experiences
Southern Türkiye is rich in history and culture, with many festivals and cultural events taking place throughout the region during the winter months. The off-season provides ample opportunities to immerse yourself in local traditions without the distractions of the tourist season.
Con: Housing Challenges
While the cost of living in southern Türkiye tends to be lower compared to larger cities like Istanbul, finding affordable year-round housing can be challenging. Most rentals are available only during the off-season, with homeowners preferring short-term rentals at higher prices during summer.
