Welcome to your guide to the Turkey job market. Finding the right job or candidate requires solid data. Here you will find key figures on employment, salaries and the economy to support your next career step or recruitment decision in Turkey.
Job market overview
| Key metric | Current value |
|---|---|
| Total population | 84,339,067 residents |
| Employment rate | 52.9% |
| Unemployment rate | 9.3%Moderate to higher unemployment – strong, specific skills help you stand out. |
With an unemployment rate of 9.3%, Turkey has a more balanced labor market. Candidates should highlight specialized skills and experience.
Living & working in Turkey: salaries and cost of living
Before relocating or applying for jobs in Turkey, consider these key economic factors:
| Indicator | Value | Compared with the U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Average monthly salary | 709 USD | 16% of the U.S. averagesignificantly lower |
| Purchasing power | 49.1 | weaker (U.S. = 100) |
With a purchasing power index of 49.1, the average monthly salary of 709 USD supports a budget-conscious lifestyle in Turkey. Always compare an offer with local rents and living costs in the specific city.
Top industries & employers in TR
| Leading industry | Manufacturing (Textiles, Automotive) |
| Growth sector | Services (Tourism, Retail) |
| Service sector | Agriculture (Wheat, Cotton) |
| Major employers | Koç Holding, Sabancı Holding, Turkish Airlines |
Job seekers will usually find the most openings in Manufacturing (Textiles, Automotive), while Services (Tourism, Retail) offers growth potential.
Working in Turkey – FAQ
What's the employment situation in Turkey?
Turkey has a population of about 84,339,067. The employment rate is 52.9%. The unemployment rate currently stands at 9.3%.
Which are the top companies in Turkey?
Large employers in Turkey include Koç Holding, Sabancı Holding, Turkish Airlines.
How far does a salary go in Turkey?
The purchasing power index for Turkey is 49.1 (U.S. = 100), which means the cost of living should be weighed carefully when comparing job offers.
How can I find jobs in Turkey?
Browse the latest international openings on Cityjobs and filter by country or remote work. Employers post directly, and you apply with the employer.
Which industries matter most in Turkey?
Manufacturing (Textiles, Automotive) is the leading industry, while Services (Tourism, Retail) is an important growth sector, alongside Agriculture (Wheat, Cotton).
Data sources & methodology
The figures in this guide are compiled from these public sources:
- Employment & economic data: World Bank Indicators
- Cost of living & salaries: Numbeo Cost of Living Database
