Over the course of my career, I’ve had the privilege of analyzing the economic landscapes of more than 50 cities across the globe. From bustling metropolises to smaller urban centers, each city presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. My experiences have yielded a wealth of insights that can be invaluable for economists, policymakers, and urban planners alike. Here’s a deep dive into the key lessons I’ve learned.
One of the first lessons I learned is that no city economy exists in isolation. Regional context — encompassing everything from geographical location to the economic health of neighboring cities — plays a crucial role in shaping urban economies. For example, a city in a thriving economic region will often benefit from spillover effects, such as increased trade, labor mobility, and shared infrastructure. Conversely, cities in economically distressed regions may struggle even if they have strong internal dynamics. … Read Full Article
