Bayburt is considered one of Turkey's less economically developed provinces and its economy is predominantly based on agriculture, animal husbandry and beekeeping. These sectors employ a large proportion of the city's population and are among the main sources of income for the local economy. Small-scale family businesses in particular account for most of the agricultural activities in the region. The main agricultural products are cereals, vegetables such as potatoes and beans, and fruits such as apples and pears.
In Bayburt, animal husbandry, especially sheep and goat breeding, has an important place in economic activities. The milk, meat and wool obtained from these animals play an important role among the income sources of the local people. In addition, the region is particularly developed in beekeeping; local honey and other bee products are in demand both in domestic and foreign markets.
The industrial sector has a smaller share in Bayburt's economy. Existing industrial establishments generally consist of small and medium-sized enterprises, mainly operating in areas such as construction materials, food processing and textiles. However, adequate infrastructure and investment support for industrial development in the city is limited, which constrains overall economic growth.
As for employment opportunities, job opportunities in Bayburt are generally limited, leading to migration out of the city, especially among young people. Most job opportunities in the city are concentrated in government offices and the education sector. Bayburt University, as one of the largest employers in the city, offers work opportunities for academic and administrative staff. However, as job opportunities in the private sector are generally limited in Bayburt, entrepreneurship and small business are more prominent.
As a result, Bayburt's economy and employment opportunities are based on agricultural activities and small-scale enterprises. The lack of industrialization and large-scale enterprises in the city limits its capacity for economic growth and job creation, which often leads to migration of the young population to larger cities.