Motivations Influencing Relocation to the Suburbs: The Case of Izmir

Abstract

The ongoing urbanization trend has led to various challenges including environmental degradation, and decreased welfare among city dwellers. While economic factors have historically been the primary driver of urban migration, recent research suggests that unplanned urbanization and the problems it brings such as decreased green spaces, traffic congestion and air pollution are gaining significance. As a result, a group of people has been relocating from urban to suburban areas, seeking an improved standard of living. This shift reflects a complex interplay of factors including demographic, socioeconomic, and sociocultural shifts. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an increased interest in suburban areas due to remote work opportunities and concerns about urban living conditions. This study examines motivations for suburban living in Izmir, Turkey, focusing on Villakent neighbourhood. Through surveys and interviews with residents, it explores demographic characteristics and reasons for choosing suburban life. The research is based on the results of a sample of 123 participants of a survey questionnaire and 15 in-depth interviews. Findings have indicated that the participants’ desire for living in a house with a garden and the discomforting crowds in the city centers was the important factors in suburban relocation. In interviews, it was also revealed that the affordability of housing in the suburbs compared to city centers is also an important factor in choosing to settle in the suburbs. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on suburban relocation, and the earthquake risk in Izmir has also increased people's desire to move away from city centers. In the interviews, the preference for Villakent was discussed along with its positive and negative aspects in detail. Policymakers must consider these insights to address urban challenges and promote sustainable urban development.