The major aim of this study is to present a critical look on the existing outdoor lighting installations and put forward a comparative approach to assess the quality of outdoor lighting systems in the selected multi-family residential areas. This aim is based on a common assumption that the existing lighting system standards and installation arrangements are unsatisfactory. Upon considering the urban context, it can be stated that residential areas particularly are lack of well-illuminated public spaces. In this respect, this study aims to determine the common illumination problems that affect night-time outdoor space quality in residential areas and these factors behind this problems. The data and material necessary to carry out this study are obtained from literature survey and site survey. The collected data are evaluated through Cost Analysis and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) used by Expert Choice Software. AHP has been used for the determination of priorities, evaluation of the outdoor lighting quality for the residential areas and selection of the best one in the selected residential areas that are Mavişehir, Oyak and Evka 3 in İzmir. Analysis indicated that the quality problems about outdoor illumination could be decreased through effective design and regular care and maintenance efforts. Key words: Lighting Quality, Illumination, Lighting, Outdoor Space Lighting, Light Pollution, Outdoor Space Quality, Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), Residential Area.