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Midsize Settlements in Europe: Definition, Population Trends, and Contribution to Regional Development

Author

Listed:
  • Paolo Veneri
  • David Burgalassi
  • Alison Weingarden

Abstract

This paper analyses population trends across Europe at a fine spatial resolution from 2011 to 2021, focusing on midsize settlements (cities and towns with 5000–250,000 inhabitants) and their surrounding areas. While large cities dominate Europe's demographic dynamics, midsize settlements exhibit stark heterogeneity in population growth, driven by factors such as settlement size, urban hierarchy position, accessibility, and service provision. We find that proximity to cities is the strongest predictor of population growth for both midsize settlements and their respective hinterlands. Service availability also matters, but only within settlements' boundaries. Finally, population growth in midsize settlements' commuting regions is positively associated with both proximity to secondary settlements offering regional‐level functions (e.g., hospitals, universities) and with growth of the central‐largest settlement.

Suggested Citation

  • Paolo Veneri & David Burgalassi & Alison Weingarden, 2025. "Midsize Settlements in Europe: Definition, Population Trends, and Contribution to Regional Development," Journal of Regional Science, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 65(5), pages 1338-1352, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:jregsc:v:65:y:2025:i:5:p:1338-1352
    DOI: 10.1111/jors.70005
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    JEL classification:

    • R10 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General Regional Economics - - - General
    • R11 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General Regional Economics - - - Regional Economic Activity: Growth, Development, Environmental Issues, and Changes
    • R12 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General Regional Economics - - - Size and Spatial Distributions of Regional Economic Activity; Interregional Trade (economic geography)
    • R23 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - Household Analysis - - - Regional Migration; Regional Labor Markets; Population

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