Turkmenistan’s cities tell a story of concentrated energy wealth, historic trade routes, and stark regional differences. From tree-lined avenues in the capital to industrial hubs near gas fields, urban life here reflects both rapid development and local traditions.
There are 6 Richest Cities in Turkmenistan, ranging from Arkadağ to Türkmenabat. The list gives each city’s basic context and is organized with the columns Country,Population (year),Wealth proxy (USD, annual) so you can compare size and estimated economic standing at a glance — you’ll find below.
How is “richest” determined for these cities?
“Richest” here is based on available proxies rather than a single official ranking: estimates use indicators like local industry revenue, infrastructure investment, and per‑household income where direct GDP by city isn’t published; the Wealth proxy (USD, annual) column explains the methodology and data year used.
Which cities are showing the most recent economic growth?
Recent growth tends to be strongest in cities tied to gas and construction projects (notably the capital and major regional centers such as Türkmenabat), but the table below shows year-to-year changes so you can see which places have risen fastest in the chosen wealth proxy.
Richest Cities in Turkmenistan
| City | Country | Population (year) | Wealth proxy (USD, annual) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ashgabat | Turkmenistan | 1,030,000 (2022) | $31,000,000,000 |
| Türkmenabat | Turkmenistan | 279,765 (2022) | $3,400,000,000 |
| Mary | Turkmenistan | 126,141 (2022) | $1,900,000,000 |
| Arkadağ | Turkmenistan | 73,000 (2023) | $1,800,000,000 |
| Balkanabat | Turkmenistan | 90,149 (2022) | $1,500,000,000 |
| Turkmenbashi | Turkmenistan | 76,500 (2022) | $1,400,000,000 |
Images and Descriptions
Ashgabat
As the capital, Ashgabat concentrates the nation’s wealth through government spending, finance, and massive state-funded construction. Known for its marble architecture, it is the undisputed administrative and financial heart of Turkmenistan, though specific economic data is an estimate based on its central role.
Türkmenabat
Turkmenistan’s second-largest city is a vital transport and industrial hub on the Amu Darya river. Its economy benefits from its strategic location for rail and road logistics, alongside major chemical and textile plants, making it a key regional commercial center connecting to Uzbekistan.
Mary
The engine of Turkmenistan’s immense natural gas wealth, Mary is located near the supergiant Galkynysh gas field. The city’s economy is almost entirely focused on gas processing, pipeline operations, and related services that are fundamental to the country’s export revenue.
Arkadağ
A brand-new “smart city” whose wealth derives entirely from over $5 billion in direct state investment. Designed as a futuristic administrative center, its economic value is based on massive government capital injection and high-tech infrastructure rather than organically developed industries.
Balkanabat
Located in the heart of Turkmenistan’s primary oil-producing region, Balkanabat’s economy is dominated by the energy sector. It serves as a base for state oil companies like Türkmennebit and numerous oilfield service firms, directly tied to the nation’s crude oil output.
Turkmenbashi
Home to the nation’s main Caspian Sea port and largest oil refinery complex. Turkmenbashi is a critical hub for international trade, oil exports, and shipbuilding. Its economy is further boosted by the nearby Awaza National Tourist Zone, a major resort development.
