Comparison of Highest Paying Jobs in Turkey and Indonesia

The salary differences between Turkey and Indonesia have always been an interesting topic for job seekers aiming to improve their standard of living. In 2025, Turkey once again shows its commitment to worker welfare by increasing the minimum wage by 30%, reaching TL 22,104 or the equivalent of IDR 9.95 million per month.

This figure certainly tempts many Indonesian workers to try their luck in the country of two continents. However, before you decide to work abroad, it’s good to understand the salary comparison for various professions in both countries.

Professions and Their Comparison in Turkey and Indonesia

Knowing the highest paying jobs in Turkey will open up opportunities for you if you want to move to Turkey. This way, you’ll know the average salary for jobs there from the start. Here is a comparison of the highest-paying jobs in Turkey and Indonesia.

1. Dentist

In Turkey, the dental profession holds a top position with an average salary reaching TRY 18,100, or about IDR 27.4 million per month. 

This figure far exceeds the income of a dentist in Indonesia, which ranges from IDR 8-15 million per month in big cities. Turkey’s modern healthcare system and high public awareness of dental health create a consistent demand for this profession.

This significant difference is due to several factors. Turkey has a healthcare service standard that is on par with European countries. Meanwhile, the high cost of dental education limits the supply of dentists. 

In Indonesia, although the need for dentists is also high, the purchasing power of the public and the health insurance system are not yet widespread. As a result, consultation fees have to be adjusted. However, you need to remember that to practice in Turkey, certification and adequate Turkish language skills are required.

2. CEO and Executives

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) position in Turkey offers compensation of up to TRY 18,700, or IDR 28.3 million per month. Meanwhile, a CEO of a large company in Indonesia can earn a salary of IDR 50-200 million per month. Interestingly, for multinational companies in Indonesia, a CEO’s salary can far exceed their counterparts in Turkey.

However, for mid-sized companies, a CEO in Turkey generally receives better compensation with more comprehensive benefits.
This difference reflects the economic structure of both countries. 

Turkey, with an economy more integrated with Europe, offers better stability and predictability for executives. In Indonesia, market volatility and regulatory complexity make the CEO position more challenging. As a result, large companies are willing to pay a premium to get the best talent.

3. Software Developer

The technology industry in Turkey is growing rapidly, with developers/programmers earning an average salary of TRY 7,750, or IDR 11.7 million per month. In Indonesia, a senior software developer in Jakarta can earn IDR 10-25 million per month. 

The Turkish tech scene is booming, especially in the AI and cloud computing sectors, creating a high demand for tech talent. The market for IT services is projected to reach $4.76 billion by 2029.

Interestingly, Indonesia, with its vibrant startup ecosystem, often offers equity and bonuses that can significantly increase the total compensation. As a developer in Indonesia, you also have the advantage of remote work opportunities with international clients. 

Meanwhile, in Turkey, its proximity to Europe provides exposure to regional-scale projects. Both countries offer promising career growth, but with different characteristics.

Read Also: Sending money to Turkey is easier, faster, and 100% secure via the Transfez website or app.

4. Pilot

The pilot profession in Turkey gets compensation of around TRY 14,200, or IDR 21.5 million per month. In Indonesia, a senior pilot for a national airline can earn IDR 30-70 million per month. 

Turkish Airlines, as a major airline with a wide international network, offers a clear career path, along with high-quality training. Additional benefits like accommodation and premium insurance make the total package very attractive.

Indonesia, with its growing aviation industry, also offers bright prospects for pilots. You who work as a pilot in Indonesia will enjoy high demand as domestic and low-cost carriers expand.

However, fierce competition and the high cost of training are entry barriers. In Turkey, government support for the aviation industry and its strategic position as a hub between Europe and Asia provide better job security for this profession.

5. Nurse

A nurse in Turkey gets an average salary of TRY 6,330, or IDR 9.6 million per month. This figure is almost on par with the country’s minimum wage. In Indonesia, a nurse at a large private hospital can earn IDR 4-8 million per month. This difference reflects how both countries value the healthcare profession. 

Turkey, with its more mature healthcare system, provides better compensation and working conditions for nurses. 

However, you need to know that Turkey is actively recruiting international nurses to meet the needs of its healthcare sector. This opens up great opportunities for Indonesian nurses who want an international career. 

On the other hand, Indonesia, with its universal health coverage program, is also starting to improve the welfare of healthcare workers. Both countries offer high job security for this profession.

The salary comparison between Turkey and Indonesia shows an interesting pattern. For traditional professions like doctors, nurses, and skilled workers, Turkey generally offers better compensation, with an average salary reaching IDR 13.4 million per month. 

However, for executive and tech-related jobs, Indonesia can compete with and even surpass Turkey, especially in large companies and unicorn startups.

Read Also: 8 Highest Paying Jobs in Belgium and Career Opportunities

The decision to pursue a career in Turkey or stay in Indonesia should not be based solely on the salary figure. You need to consider the cost of living, career growth opportunities, work-life balance, and, of course, your ability to adapt to a new culture. 

Turkey offers international exposure and a European standard of living, while Indonesia provides the opportunity to contribute to a rapidly growing economy with immense growth potential. 

Whatever your choice, make sure to continuously develop your skills and build a strong network for long-term career success!