Dividing lines widen in Istanbul while inequalities between districts intensifies: Report

Economic inequalities in Istanbul, Europe’s most populous city, harboring 20% of Türkiye’s residents, are intensifying, even within individual districts, as clear gaps in wealth emerge across various neighborhoods, according to a recent study by the Turkish ILKE Foundation.

The report delves into differences among districts, examining key indicators such as demography, economy, health, education, environment, transportation, and social life. It also scrutinizes Istanbul’s urbanization dynamics, migration trends, and the spatial transformation processes affecting the districts.

Sisli, Kadıköy, and Fatih serve as key commercial and financial centers in Istanbul, attracting businesses, corporate offices, and a high concentration of economic activity. In contrast, Esenyurt and Tuzla are recognized as major industrial hubs, hosting manufacturing facilities, logistics centers, and warehouses that contribute to the city’s economic output.

Meanwhile, the real estate market reflects the city’s socioeconomic disparities, with Esenyurt offering the most affordable rental prices at an average of ₺15,500 ($424.86) per month, making it a more accessible option for lower-income residents. On the other hand, Sariyer, known for its luxurious waterfront properties and high-end residential areas, has the highest average rent in the city, reaching ₺60,000 per month.

The financial divide also extends to household consumption patterns, particularly in utility usage. “The impact of income level on consumption habits is significant,” Oner noted, emphasizing the correlation between affluence and resource consumption.

According to the report, residents in wealthier districts like Besiktas, Sarıyer, and Kadikoy use nearly twice as much water and energy compared to those in lower-income areas, reflecting differences in lifestyle, housing conditions, and access to amenities.

Addressing urban challenges in Istanbul

Highlighting the evolving urban landscape, the report pointed out shifts in residential patterns across Istanbul. “Central districts like Fatih, Kadikoy, and Sisli are experiencing population declines, while peripheral districts such as Beylikduzu and Esenyurt are sharply rising,” it noted, emphasizing the significant increase in Beylikduzu’s population.

The trend towards single-person households is more pronounced in central areas like Kadikoy, Sisli, and Bakirkoy. The report mentioned that in contrast to these areas, peripheral districts with denser populations and less favorable socioeconomic conditions show higher fertility rates, which reflect enduring cultural norms.

Discussing Istanbul’s public transportation network, the report highlighted the extensive use and disparities within it. “Besiktas and Kadikoy enjoy robust rail connections, enhancing mobility and reducing reliance on private vehicles,” it observed. However, it pointed out that Esenyurt, despite its density, lacks sufficient rail infrastructure, which exacerbates traffic congestion.

It also mentioned that initiatives for promoting bicycle use and pedestrian-friendly pathways are more concentrated in central districts but diminish in the outskirts.

The report also addresses educational disparities, particularly noting a significant increase in higher education levels in economically challenged districts like Sultangazi, Sultanbeyli, and Esenyurt. The report explained, “This rise suggests an expansion in educational opportunities, though challenges in service quality persist.”

“For instance, while a classroom in Esenyurt might have as many as 35 students, in Besiktas, the number is typically around 22, and in Kadikoy, only 17,” the report said.

The report discussed the distribution of green spaces across the city, noting disparities related to economic conditions. It explained that while districts like Sariyer, Beykoz, and the Islands are better off with about 2.2 square meters (23.6 square foot) of green space per person, areas like Gaziosmanpasa, Esenyurt, and Fatih have less than one square meter per person, underscoring the uneven allocation of environmental resources.