Internal Migration Data: Decline in Istanbul's Inflows, Drops in Ankara and Izmir

Turkey's 2025 internal migration data, revealed by the Turkish Statistical Institute, showed significant imbalances among the country's three largest cities. Istanbul received 329,912 migrants last year, down from 395,485 in 2024. Meanwhile, the city sent out 369,453 migrants, an increase of 3,745 from 2024. Ankara saw a 13% decline in migration inflows, while Izmir recorded a 10% drop. Combined, the three major cities recorded 612,828 migrants received and 615,647 migrants sent.

The shifts in internal migration data suggest a reshaping of Turkey's demographic dynamics. The decline in intercity mobility could reflect factors like reduced job opportunities or changes in quality of life. These figures may also fuel discussions on the need for a review of Turkey's migration policies.