The Best 8 Areas to Live in Istanbul with Family

Top residential districts Istanbul include Başakşehir for its modern infrastructure, Ataköy for luxury and seaside living, Kağıthane for green spaces and calm, Basin Express for investment opportunities, Halkalı for lakeside development, Bahçeşehir for its garden-city concept, Beylikdüzü for coastal views and affordability, and Üsküdar for cultural charm and tranquility on the Asian side. Each area suits different lifestyles and budgets.

When it comes to living in Istanbul, the city offers an exceptional variety of residential neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. From historic charm to modern innovation, The best residential areas in Istanbul are spread across both its European and Asian sides. Each district has something unique to offer—whether it's natural beauty, advanced infrastructure, proximity to business hubs, or vibrant social life.

Real Estate Growth in Istanbul

With the rapid rise in real estate demand, Istanbul has become one of the top destinations for both local and foreign investors.

According to Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK) data published via Anadolu Agency on January 16, 2019, real estate sales in 2018 increased by a staggering 78.4%. Istanbul alone accounted for 14,270 apartments sold to foreigners, making it the leading Turkish city in property sales.

Best Residential Areas in Istanbul

Istanbul is a vast, dynamic city divided into two continents: Europe and Asia, each offering distinctive features. The European side is known for its economic activity and modern living, while the Asian side is preferred for its tranquility and cultural depth.

Let’s explore the top neighborhoods to live in Istanbul on both sides of the Bosphorus.

Read also: Apartments for sale in Istanbul European side

Best Neighborhoods to Live in Istanbul – European Side

1. Basaksehir

Basaksehir is famous for its modern infrastructure and services, such as high-rise complexes and high towers, and the geographical location near bridges and airports.

The area is classified by real estate experts in the city as one of the best areas of Istanbul to buy an apartment, why not?! And it is the new Istanbul center! With its tranquility and serenity next to a large lake, with high-quality education and health services, and has recently become the first destination for local and foreign investors. Thus, we find that the prices of apartments in the Basaksehir are rising.

2. Atakoy

Located along the Marmara Sea, Ataköy boasts vast green spaces, luxury hotels (including Sheraton Istanbul), and elite residential projects. Its unique blend of nature and city life makes it one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Istanbul, offering tranquility without sacrificing centrality.

3. Kagithane District

In addition to its magnificent green nature, Kağıthane district is characterized by the art of modern Turkish architecture, its calmness and high-quality services, with a series of buildings and houses surrounded by public and private parks. , It is the best areas of Istanbul for accommodation, so the prices of real estate are rising, and luxury projects within the boundaries of the region are increasing.

4.Basin Express

One of the most famous areas for mega projects and it is a forum for international and coastal roads, in addition to residential complexes and dozens of hotels.

The region is also located at a junction of roads between Ataturk Airport and Istanbul new airport, with a lot of investment opportunities where it is witnessing a huge number of population, commercial and urban recently, for this reason, Basin Express is dubbed as the road of luxury real estate properties in Istanbul.

5. Halkali Area

Halkali area is characterized by a great acceleration in investment growth. It has a charming view of the lake that is popular with its residents: Küçükçekmece Lake. Its real estate projects are modern, built on innovative technologies and have become one of the best residential areas in Istanbul, where new capital flows are flowing.

6. Bahcesehir

Do you like difference and excellence and living in a green metropolis? Then your first choice will be the city of gardens known as the “Bahçeşehir" which is named after its beauty and the many parks there.

Bahçeşehir has many luxurious residential complexes with the highest amenities, social and health facilities, and many shops and malls.

Bahçeşehir has been transformed in recent years into an important center for attracting real estate investors. Observers expect real estate prices to rise by about 50 % after completion of the metro line project, which will connect it to the central regions of the country. Not to mention its proximity to the new Istanbul Canal project, which will play a leading role in changing the future of Istanbul.

7. Beylikduzu

With its modern buildings and huge towers, its elegant design has attracted investors from all over the world and has become one of Istanbul's most vibrant areas with stunning sea views.

Beylikdüzü is also characterized by its long stretch of Marmara Sea, the Beylikduzu area has developed its services and historical sites. This has contributed to the recovery of property purchases and has made it a destination for buyers and investors in one of the fastest growing areas in Istanbul.

Read also: Apartments Prices in Beylikduzu Istanbul

Best Area to Live in Istanbul Asain Side - Elite Housing Istanbul

The Asian side of Istanbul is beloved for its peaceful atmosphere, lush nature, and lower population density. It’s especially attractive for those seeking comfort, culture, and well-planned residential communities.

Read also: Apartments For Sale in Istanbul Asian Side

• Üsküdar – Where Heritage Meets Tranquility

Üsküdar is one of the most prestigious areas on the Asian side. Its strategic location near the Bosphorus Bridge and iconic landmarks such as the Maiden's Tower make it rich in both history and value. Residents enjoy a calm lifestyle, panoramic sea views, and easy access to ferry transport and metro lines.

Other prominent Asian-side districts worth considering include:

• Kadıköy: Istanbul’s cultural hub with lively streets, cafes, and art venues.

• Çekmeköy: A suburban-style area with a strong family-friendly atmosphere.

• Maltepe & Kartal: Known for modern housing and proximity to the coastline and public transit.

The Asian side is increasingly favored by elite investors due to its advanced infrastructure, cleaner air, and access to luxury shopping malls, hospitals, and international schools.

Edited by: Imtilak Real Estate

Sources: Turk Press, Anadolu