Izmir’s Star Is Shining Bright

Izmir is emerging as Turkey’s rising star, thanks to its high quality of life and economic potential. This success is setting an example for other cities as well. Asst. Prof. Dr. Burçin Önder, Advisor to the Rector of Izmir University of Economics (IUE), stated that with a 37% annual increase in the real estate market, Izmir has become one of the most desirable cities in Turkey. Asst. Prof. Dr. Önder said, “According to an index by a consulting firm that compares one thousand cities worldwide based on various criteria such as economy, human capital, quality of life, and environment, Izmir ranks 409th. In the ‘human capital’ category, which measures education and the work environment alongside demographic trends, the city ranks 300th. In many respects, Izmir is a true center of attraction.”

OVERTOOK MEGACITIES

Noting that, according to one of the world’s largest databases, Izmir has surpassed cities like London, Los Angeles, and Rome in terms of quality of life, Asst. Prof. Dr. Önder said, “This result proves that Izmir is taking significant steps toward becoming a livable city. With its natural beauty and growing economy, Izmir is an attractive hub for investors. The city’s rise in the field of health tourism could transform it into a health center in the coming years. Additionally, investments in Izmir’s education and business environment will strengthen its human capital and contribute to its economic growth.”

REGIONAL HUB

Prof. Dr. Coşkun Küçüközmen, Faculty Member at IUE Department of International Trade and Finance, emphasized Izmir’s crucial role in revitalizing the Aegean Region, given its historical and cultural richness. Prof. Dr. Küçüközmen said, “Izmir, a city known as the cradle of both the nation’s foundation and liberation, could make a global impact thanks to its vast wealth. Looking at global examples, tourism opportunities in regions typically stem from a combination of history, geography, climate, natural resources, and human capital. To make the most of these opportunities, cities must develop a roadmap that identifies where they want to go in the short, medium, and long term within the tourism sector. Cities are now adopting a ‘sustainable tourism’ mindset through projects that enable tourism throughout the year. Tourism plays a critical role in ensuring Izmir remains integrated with the world.”

GREAT POTENTIAL IN IMPACT INVESTMENT

Dr. Tolga Genç, Lecturer at IUE Vocational School, added: “Impact investing refers to investments aimed not only at financial returns but also at creating social and environmental benefits. Izmir is one of the Turkish cities with strong potential in this area. Impact investment is important for the social and economic development of Izmir. With its rich cultural heritage, growing tourism sector, renewable energy potential, and sustainable agriculture projects, Izmir could become a highly attractive region for impact investment. Its location in western Turkey and along the Aegean coast gives it a significant advantage for both domestic and international trade.”