Tier 2Southeastern Anatolia
Gaziantep
At a glance
Population
2,193,363 (2024)
Foreign residents
14,082
Universities
4
Cost (Istanbul=100)
55
Climate
Mediterranean-continental
Summer: 35+°C
Winter: pending°C
Cold, wet winters
Cost of living
Relative to Istanbul: 55 (Istanbul = 100)
Industrial wealth supports modern infrastructure without artificial rent inflation. Specific 2026 costs pending.
Universities here
4 universities total
Notable: Gaziantep University
Daily life
English environment
Rarely spoken
Nightlife
Traditional — centred on dining halls and cafes rather than bars
Safety
High within the city (note: proximity to Syrian border)
Food
- Baklava (Gaziantep is the global capital)
- Wide variety of kebabs
UNESCO-recognised gastronomy
Famous for
- Zeugma Mosaic Museum
- UNESCO gastronomy capital
For students
Pros
- Unparalleled culinary experiences
- Low cost of living
- Booming industrial economy
Watchouts
- Extreme summer heat
- Proximity to Syrian border deters some international students despite city safety
Sources