Earthquake Anxiety Shakes Work Life in Türkiye: One in Three Plans to Relocate

A recent survey by Kariyer.net highlights the growing impact of earthquake risk on workplace behavior and residential choices in Istanbul and the Marmara region. The findings reveal that one in every three employees is considering relocating, and over 70% want to shift to remote or hybrid work models—a striking sign of how natural disaster anxiety is reshaping professional priorities in Türkiye’s most populated economic zone.

Earthquake Fears Now Influence Work Habits and Daily Life

Frequent tremors in recent years and the looming expectation of a major Marmara earthquake are no longer just housing market concerns—they are now transforming how people work, live, and plan for safety. The Kariyer.net survey reveals that 80% of employees in the region express anxiety about earthquakes, while only 7% feel secure.

• 57% of participants said they feel uneasy on a daily basis.

• Only 33% of those staying in place trust their building or neighborhood infrastructure.

• Alarmingly, 40% aren’t sure if their building is earthquake-resistant.

Shift Toward Hybrid and Remote Work Gains Urgency

Although 82% of employees currently work full-time in offices, this setup is increasingly seen as unsustainable. The combination of seismic risk and rising living costs is prompting workers to reconsider where and how they work.

• Over 70% of employees now prefer a hybrid working model.

• Remote work is viewed not only as safer, but also as key to improving quality of life.

• The findings suggest that employers must now develop disaster-resilient workforce strategies.

Rising Relocation Plans Amid Uncertainty in Structural Safety

The study also revealed that 35% of workers are considering moving out of Istanbul or its surroundings, driven by concerns over infrastructure resilience and building safety.

• 38% believe their building is safe,

• 17% believe it is not,

• And 40% remain unsure, underscoring the uncertainty and lack of transparency around earthquake-proofing.

Corporate Preparedness Found Lacking by Majority

Companies are widely seen as unprepared for potential disaster scenarios. The research shows:

• 55% of employees think their companies’ earthquake measures are inadequate.

• 76% have never received any disaster training or emergency seminars at work.

• 60% would like to receive such training, while

• 65% of individuals have no personal emergency plan.

These statistics reflect a critical gap in workplace safety and awareness, pushing businesses to consider emergency planning as part of employee well-being strategies.