The relationship between population density and both social and economic outcomes is a complex interplay of numerous factors. Population density, defined as the number of people per square mile, varies tremendously across the United States.
High population densities, such as those seen in the cities and suburbs of the eastern seaboard, spur bustling economic and social environments and foster the sort of environments synonymous with words like 'cosmopolitan' and 'urban.' However, these come with their own challenges like inflated housing costs, heightened pollution, and pressure on existing resources. On the opposite end, lower densities can offer serene landscapes and close-knit communities, but can also present challenges related to economic development and risk isolation on multiple fronts.
Key findings from the data include: