Understanding the dynamics of Türkiye's youth population—particularly those aged 15–34, often identified as Generation Z and younger Millennials—is critical for both public and private sector stakeholders. This analysis explores province-level data to uncover key demographic shifts from 2020 to 2024, focusing on the youth segment’s distribution and evolving regional patterns.
National Overview
Türkiye's youth population remains a critical segment of the country's demographic landscape, with nearly 30% of the total population falling within the 15-34 age group. While the absolute number of young people has remained stable, the relative share of youth in the total population has experienced a slight decline, reflecting broader trends in aging demographics and shifting migration patterns.
The population growth in metropolitan areas like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir highlights the continuing urbanization trend, driven by education, employment, and lifestyle preferences. On the other hand, eastern and southeastern provinces—such as Hakkari, Şırnak, and Siirt—continue to have the highest youth ratios.
Additionally, provinces experiencing a decline in youth population, such as Malatya, Adıyaman, and Hatay, may face economic and social challenges in the coming years, particularly in retaining a skilled workforce and sustaining local economies areas.
Between 2020 and 2024, Türkiye's overall population grew at a considerably faster rate (2.45%) than its youth population (0.09%) between 2020 and 2024. This trend likely reflects the impact of an aging population, among other demographic shifts.
Regional Shifts & Earthquake Impact
Several provinces recorded a decline in their youth population share. While this is partly due to broader demographic trends, it’s important to note the 2023 earthquakes’ impact on Adıyaman, Malatya and Hatay, which led to population displacement and a subsequent decrease in youth presence.
Below analysis cross-referenced the share of youth population (ages 15–34) with provincial purchasing power levels to map where Turkey’s Generation Z is both demographically concentrated and economically empowered.
While metropolitan hubs like Istanbul, Ankara, Bursa, and Kocaeli emerge as dual-advantage zones—with both a strong Gen Z presence and high consumer spending capacity—eastern and southeastern provinces such as Şırnak, Hakkari, and Siirt illustrate a different profile: youthful, but economically constrained. These areas offer unique potential for affordable, scalable, youth-oriented solutions. Meanwhile, provinces like Izmir and Antalya maintain relatively moderate youth shares but stand out for their elevated purchasing power, bolstered by tourism and commercial dynamism. Together, these insights emphasize the value of geo-targeted strategies that align product positioning with both demographic composition and economic readiness.
Ankara: 1,762,706
Izmir: 1,218,580
Bursa: 908,764
Antalya: 873,368
Yalova: +12.00%
Muğla: +6.69%
Tekirdağ: +6.51%
Şırnak: +6.46%
Retail Market Opportunities
The concentration of youth in urban centers presents several opportunities for businesses:
- Technology and Electronics: High smartphone penetration and increasing interest in gaming and tech-related gadgets present strong sales potential.
- Fashion and Apparel: Young consumers drive demand for fast fashion, sustainable clothing, and streetwear brands.
- Entertainment and Social Venues: Cafés, gaming hubs, and co-working spaces can capitalize on youth social habits.
- Education and Skill Development: Expanding vocational training, coding bootcamps, and digital learning platforms can align with workforce demands.
- Health and Wellness: Gyms, organic food markets, and mental health services have growing appeal among the younger demographic.
Conclusion
As Türkiye continues to urbanize and age simultaneously, Generation Z's geographical distribution becomes a vital lens for evaluating economic potential and social policy. While cities remain hubs of youth activity, regional differences—especially those caused by natural disasters—should guide long-term planning and investment strategies.
At Customer Insight Innovations (CII), we specialize in turning demographic insights into actionable strategies. Contact us to explore how Türkiye’s youth trends can shape your business future.