Top High-Paying Careers in Turkey: What to Know in 2025
Turkey’s job market is full of opportunities across a wide range of industries. While salaries can vary depending on experience, qualifications, and location, some careers consistently stand out for offering higher earning potential. Whether you’re planning your next move or just starting out, here’s a look at some of the best-paying professions in Turkey right now.
1. Medical and Healthcare Careers in Turkey
Doctors and Specialists
It’s no surprise that medical professionals—especially specialists—top the list. Fields like cardiology, neurosurgery, and plastic surgery command high salaries due to their complexity and high demand.
- Specialists: TRY 150,000 – 500,000+ per year
- General Practitioners: TRY 100,000 – 250,000 per year
Dentists
Dentistry also offers solid income potential, particularly in private practices or cosmetic specialties.
- Dentists: TRY 120,000 – 400,000 per year
Pharmacists
Whether working in hospitals, companies, or running a private pharmacy, pharmacists earn stable and often generous salaries.
- Pharmacists: TRY 80,000 – 200,000 per year
2. Engineering and Tech Careers in Turkey
Software Developers and IT Experts
With the digital sector booming, careers in software development, AI, and cybersecurity are becoming more lucrative each year.
- Software Engineers: TRY 100,000 – 300,000
- AI Specialists: TRY 150,000 – 400,000
Civil Engineers and Architects
As Turkey continues to invest in infrastructure, these roles remain in high demand.
- Civil Engineers: TRY 80,000 – 250,000
- Architects: TRY 90,000 – 300,000
Petroleum and Mining Engineers
For those working in energy and natural resources—especially in multinational firms—earnings can be substantial.
- Average Salary: TRY 120,000 – 400,000
3. Finance and Banking
Investment Bankers
Based largely in Istanbul’s financial district, investment bankers working with large firms often enjoy some of the highest pay in the finance world.
- Investment Bankers: TRY 150,000 – 500,000
Financial Analysts & Accountants
Professionals with certifications like CFA, CPA, or ACCA are particularly sought after.
- Financial Analysts: TRY 100,000 – 300,000
- Accountants: TRY 80,000 – 200,000
4. Legal Sector
Corporate Lawyers
Lawyers working in corporate law, especially in international firms, can command impressive salaries.
- Corporate Lawyers: TRY 150,000 – 400,000
- General Legal Practitioners: TRY 80,000 – 250,000
Judges and Prosecutors
With experience, legal professionals in public roles enjoy both stability and a strong income.
- Judges/Prosecutors: TRY 120,000 – 350,000
5. Aviation & Maritime
Pilots and Air Traffic Controllers
Aviation roles continue to offer some of the top salaries in Turkey.
- Pilots: TRY 200,000 – 800,000
- Air Traffic Controllers: TRY 150,000 – 400,000
Maritime Professionals
Ship captains and engineers working in international waters are also well-compensated.
- Ship Captains: TRY 200,000 – 600,000
- Maritime Engineers: TRY 120,000 – 400,000
6. Executive and Management Roles
CEOs and Top Executives
Top-level executives—especially in large corporations—enjoy significant salaries and perks like bonuses and stock options.
- CEOs: TRY 300,000 – 2,000,000+
- Senior Managers: TRY 150,000 – 500,000
Marketing & Sales Directors
In sectors like tech and pharma, directors in these roles often earn high compensation.
- Marketing Directors: TRY 120,000 – 400,000
- Sales Directors: TRY 100,000 – 350,000
7. Education and Academia
University Professors
Professors in STEM subjects tend to earn the most in academic fields.
- Professors: TRY 100,000 – 300,000
International School Teachers
Qualified teachers at international schools often earn more than their counterparts in public education.
- International Teachers: TRY 80,000 – 200,000
8. Real Estate and Construction Careers in Turkey
Real Estate Agents & Developers
Thanks to Turkey’s strong real estate market, agents and developers who close high-value deals earn significant commissions.
From healthcare and law to technology and finance, Turkey’s high-paying careers span a wide range of fields. If you’re aiming for a financially rewarding profession, aligning your skills and education with one of these sectors can open the door to long-term success. Whether you’re planning your studies or considering a career change, these roles are worth exploring.
Looking for more tips and insights into the Turkish job market? Stay connected with us for the latest updates!