Türkiye’s Elderly Population Continues to Rise, Reaching 11.1%
Elderly Population in Türkiye Keeps Growing, Official Data Shows
ANKARA — Türkiye’s population aged 65 and over now makes up 11.1% of the total, highlighting a steady demographic shift as fertility rates decline and life expectancy rises, according to the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK).
age 65+ share (2025)
in 2020
median age (2025)
This is a rise from 9.5% in 2020, placing Türkiye 75th among 194 countries for its share of elderly residents. Women make up the majority at 55.3%, with men at 44.7%.
Experts say this reflects Türkiye’s entry into a global aging process. The country’s median age increased from 32.7 in 2020 to 34.9 in 2025.
Regional contrasts
Northern Sinop has the highest share of elderly at 21.7%, while southeastern Şırnak has the youngest population. Overall, 62 of 81 provinces now have more than 10% of residents aged 65+.
- 62 provinces exceed 10% elderly share
- Sinop leads, with more than one in five residents over 65
- Şırnak (southeast) remains the youngest province
Longevity & living arrangements
Life expectancy at birth is 78.1 years, with women living longer than men. About one in four households includes an elderly person, and 1.8 million older adults live alone, mostly women.
Family ties remain strong, with nearly 38% living with at least one child or nearby.
Digital silver generation & risks
Older adults are also increasingly digital: internet use among those aged 65–74 rose from 27.1% in 2020 to 53.2% in 2025.
22.8% face a risk of poverty or social exclusion.
Key demographics at a glance
- 65+ share 11.1% of total population
- gender split 55.3% women / 44.7% men
- life exp. 78.1 years (women longer)
- living alone 1.8 million (mostly women)
- with children 38% live with/near child
2020: 27.1% → 2025: 53.2% (+26.1pp)
✓ TÜİK data ✓ March 2025 — all numbers reflect official statistical institute release.
