Density and Land Use Patterns

Introduction

• Focus on density and land use patterns in urban areas.
• Examine changes in the density gradient from CBD (Central Business District) outward.

Bid Rent Theory

• Explains how land cost varies as distance from the CBD increases.
• Closer to CBD:
  • Higher land cost due to limited availability and high demand.
  • Densely populated with infrastructure like skyscrapers.
• Farther from CBD:
  • Lower land cost due to more available land and less demand.

High-Density Areas

• Characterized by vertical development (skyscrapers).
• Mixed-use buildings are common:
  • Apartments on upper levels.
  • Retail stores/offices on street level.
  • Underground parking.
• Advantages:
  • Proximity to goods and services.
  • Reliance on public transportation.
  • Vibrant cultural landscape if supported by good urban planning.
• Disadvantages:
  • Poor planning can lead to food deserts and limited opportunities.

Medium-Density Areas

• Transition from high to medium density involves:
  • Shift to low-rise apartments.
  • Emergence of multi-family and single-family homes.
  • Small yards.
• Characteristics:
  • More suburban feel.
  • Diversity in housing types (townhomes, duplexes, etc.).
  • Restaurants and stores spaced out but still close.

Low-Density Areas

• Characterized by horizontal development:
  • Larger lot sizes.
  • More green spaces and parking.
• Dependence on personal vehicles due to:
  • Lack of public transportation.
  • Increased commute times.
• Housing mainly consists of single-family homes and few low-rise apartments.

Global Variations

• Urban density and land use patterns vary globally.
• European cities:
  • Often have height restrictions.
  • More public transportation and community spaces.
• Impact of new technologies and transportation:
  • Enables living farther from CBD while accessing necessary services.

Urban Sprawl

• Movement towards low-density areas by residents and businesses:
  • Driven by cheaper land and improved transportation.
  • Results in urban sprawl.
  • Changes in spatial layout and land use patterns.

Conclusion

• Practice questions provided to apply knowledge.
• Encouragement to subscribe for more educational content on AP Human Geography.

Remember to review the practice questions and answers provided in the video description or comments for further learning.