Districts in Istanbul with the Lowest Earthquake Risk

Earthquakes pose sudden and destructive threats to both life and property. While Istanbul is located near active fault lines and considered a high-risk city, certain districts are deemed safer due to their geological structure and location.

This article highlights the districts in Istanbul expected to be least affected by earthquakes, based on soil composition and distance from fault zones.

1. Şile

Located on the Black Sea coast in the eastern part of Istanbul, Şile is one of the safest districts in terms of earthquake risk due to its distance from fault lines and low building density.

2. Çatalca

Situated in the western outskirts of Istanbul, Çatalca stands out with its solid ground and proximity to the Black Sea. It is far from major fault lines and less densely populated.

3. Beykoz

Located along the Bosphorus and the Black Sea, Beykoz is in the northern part of the city. Its natural terrain and green spaces contribute to its lower earthquake risk.

4. Çekmeköy

Positioned between Şile and Beykoz on the Asian side, Çekmeköy has relatively stable soil and is developing in a controlled manner, making it less vulnerable to seismic activity.

5. Arnavutköy

On the European side, Arnavutköy borders the Black Sea and benefits from high elevation and distance from fault lines, making it one of the safer districts.

6. Eyüpsultan

Located in the northwest of Istanbul, Eyüpsultan is close to the Black Sea and has solid ground, contributing to its lower earthquake risk.

7. Sarıyer

Situated between the Bosphorus and the Black Sea, Sarıyer is considered safer due to its distance from fault zones and strong geological foundation.

8. Silivri

Although Silivri has a coastline along the Marmara Sea, its inland areas are farther from fault lines and considered less risky compared to neighboring districts.

9. Sultangazi

Without direct access to the sea, Sultangazi’s location and soil structure place it among the districts with lower earthquake vulnerability.

10. Sancaktepe

Located on the Asian side, Sancaktepe is farther inland compared to high-risk districts like Kartal and Maltepe, making it a safer option in terms of seismic activity.