Segregation and Turks’ housing conditions in middle‐sized Dutch cities

Abstract This article attempts to answer two questions. First, it describes and explains segregation and concentration of one minority ethnic group (Turks) in three middle‐sized Dutch cities (Amersfoort, Delft, and Den Bosch). The question is whether or not segregation and concentration have increased and how this can be explained. This information adds to existing knowledge about the largest cities in the Netherlands. One of the main conclusions is that, compared to big cities in the Netherlands, Turks in middle‐sized cities have penetrated more in the early post‐World War II areas. Segregation levels in middle‐sized cities are, however, not necessarily smaller compared to those in the big cities. Second, the article focuses on Turks’ housing conditions in these cities. The question here is whether or not housing conditions differ between concentration areas and other areas within the city. The answer is based largely on the opinions of the Turks themselves. The main conclusion here is that many Turks are not very happy with their present housing. There was no evidence of a relationship between segregation and ties with the mother country. Nor does the presence of other Turks contribute significantly to an explanation of neighbourhood choice of those Turks who have indicated a preference to move. It must be concluded that segregation and concentration should be explained by the income position of Turks. Their low incomes limit their options for moving to better dwellings. The notion that Turks live among other Turks by choice should, on the basis of this research, be abandoned.