Measuring Quality of Urban Life in Istanbul

Abstract

This chapter presents an overview of a study examining the quality of urban life in the Istanbul metropolitan area. The primary source of information was a household survey conducted as part of the strategic planning process undertaken by the Greater Istanbul Municipality. The specific goal of the study was to inform government officials and planners about residents’ perceptions of urban life in a large and rapidly growing region. The quality of the broader residential environment and the housing unit are among the basic indicators of quality of life. Residential environments not only provide shelter but they also support a healthy family life, the care of children, and individual fulfillment or well-being. Therefore, survey findings were important to the planning process in identifying the nature and location of problems in residential areas. The chapter reviews findings from the household survey. Selected recommendations aimed at enhancing quality of life are then summarized. These cover alternative housing strategies and plans for enhancing neighborhood quality throughout the metro area.