>TREND OF MOVING OUT OF THE CITY CENTER CONTINUES IN TURKEY
>Migration flows in Turkey have recently reversed, moving from big cities to smaller provinces and from west to east. According to TurkStat data, migration from Istanbul, which has received the most migration in recent years, to other cities has increased significantly. The trend of middle- and upper-income people, especially those living in big cities, fleeing from city centers, which started during the pandemic and has intensified especially in the recent period due to the fear of earthquakes, has accelerated the process even more by affecting the lower income group due to the economically difficult conditions of big cities.
> This trend is shaped by the lifestyle preferences of many individuals and families, economic situation, job opportunities, quality of life and various other factors. Here are some important points about this trend of relocation from the centers of big cities to rural areas or smaller cities across Turkey:
>Quality of Life
>The hectic pace of life in big cities, the stress of traffic, high-cost housing and other urban problems lead individuals to move away from city centers. Especially in recent years, urban transformation projects, increase in social facilities, green areas and infrastructure works have started to become attractive.
>Remote Working Opportunities
>With the acceleration of digitalization, many people now have the opportunity to work remotely. Especially with the remote working trend that started during the pandemic and continued after the pandemic, people have gained the freedom to work from wherever they want. This situation leads individuals to live wherever they want, without being tied to fixed offices. Settlements or towns in regions far from the city center, small cities are becoming more attractive for those working from home.
>Economic Factors
>The high cost of living, housing prices and general expenses in big cities are driving people to more affordable areas. New technology and communication tools are making it more feasible to live away from city centers, allowing for a transition to a more economically sustainable lifestyle.
>Nature and Sustainable Living
>As environmental awareness increases, people are choosing to live in greener and more sustainable areas. Close to nature, fresh air and a quiet lifestyle are becoming important for many people. Therefore, rural areas or small towns are becoming an attractive option for those moving away from city centers.
>The nationwide trend of moving away from city centers is a change that is the result of the interaction of a number of factors. This trend is expected to continue, but the direction it takes will depend on individuals' and families' lifestyles, economic trends, global trends, job opportunities, technological developments and preferences.