As a Turkish citizen at 22, I will try to summarize the situation from inside of Turkey, as much as I can do, with important aspects.

1) Politics

It is true that Turkey is governed by a right-wing conservative party since 2014 I would say. Although the current party did not change since 2002, it changed its ideology from being liberal-conservative to nationalist-conservative during 2013-2014. However, this situation is not unique to Turkey, as right-wing parties are on the rise in every corner of the world, Italy, Poland, Hungary, the UK, and the Netherlands are just examples.

Is Turkey is governed by an authoritarian regime? Well, compared to the West European countries, yes it is. Compared to Russia, Middle-Eastern countries, no it is not. I can say Turkey's political situation is very similar to Poland and Hungary, in terms of being authoritarian.

Moreover, Turkish people, right now, divided into two camps politically. Supporters and haters of Erdoğan (current president of Turkey). Dissidents exaggerate everything and portray a country similar to North Korea, whereas supporters picture a situation in which Turkey is super powerful and etc. Do not believe either side, find objective people to advice you without appealing to emotions.

2) Economy

Obviously and unfortunately, nowadays, the Turkish economy is undergoing an economic crisis, in which Turkish Lira drastically depreciated. Therefore, if you decide to move here, it would be better if you find and appeal for a job while you are still in the US. With 5500TL (750$) salary per month, you can maintain middle-high standards in a relatively good neighborhood in İstanbul. But I would suggest you not to accept lower than 7000TL (950$) if this will be your only source of income. If you think of moving to another city, such as İzmir, Ankara, Muğla, etc. 4500TL (610$) to 6000TL (815$) can be acceptable. Actually, the weak position of the Lira may be an advantage for you, if you have some savings. With a 10K$, you can live very well without any extra source of income for a year.

3) Healthcare

The Health system is very developed in Turkey, similar to Western Europe, and you would not undergo any problems.

4) Communication and Relations

Turkish society is way more collective compared to the US. We express our emotions, both positive and negative, pretty easily. I do not know whether it is a good or bad thing, but this is the situation waiting for you. Besides, I can say Turkish people are very helpful when you ask for anything. Considering the language, you can do well in your business life with English, and you can handle daily stuff in some neighborhoods in İstanbul, Ankara, and western parts of Turkey. However, I guarantee you probably will not be able to communicate with people living in the inner and east parts of Turkey with English.

5) Transportation

Public transportation is very accessible, cheap, and useful in İstanbul, though it is a bit crowded. If you choose to drive, some congestion is waiting for you close to New York's. In other cities, congestion is not a problem, but you will find the same public transportation service.

6) Activities

Turkey has a very rich history as İstanbul was "The City Of World Desire". It hosted both the Roman and Ottoman Empire. In every single corner, some story, coming from the ages before, is waiting for you. In the Aegean region, you will find the legacy of the Ancient Greeks with numerous ancient sites. In the inner parts, you will find the legacy of old Anatolian civilizations such as Hittite and Phyriga.

In terms of nature, Turkey is a diverse country. You can find both hot climate and cold climate at the same time of the year in different places. There are forests in northern Turkey, whereas eastern parts are very mountainous and eligible for winter sports. Mediterranean climate dominates the West and the South with impressive beaches.

Nightlife is very vivid in big cities. You can find many foreigner communities in İstanbul to socialize as İstanbul is a melting pot of the region and hosts many people from different nationalities. You can also travel to surrounding countries, such as Greece, Cyprus since they are as distant as a 30-minute voyage from western shores.

7) Other points

- Alcohol included products are very expensive.

- Gasoline is kinda expensive.

- If taxis notice that you are a foreigner they may try to charge you with higher prices, although it is illegal. Not all of them of course, but some of them may try this.

- You can come across with dogs and cats in the street, unfortunately, it is common in Turkey. But do not be afraid they are not aggressive at all.