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Intra-metropolitan Productivity Variations of Selected Manufacturing and Business Service Sectors: What Can We Learn from Los Angeles?

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  • Maria Astrakianaki Aji

    (Nanyang Technology University, Business School, Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 2263)

Abstract

This paper explores an empirical issue: the extent to which access to various labour skills and other economic activity in Los Angeles can explain observed intra-urban variations in productivity of selected manufacturing and business service sectors. In addressing this issue, an empirical model is developed based on traditional location theory and productivity methodologies. The empirical results indicate that the influence of skilled labour access on firm productivity is stronger than the influence of access to other firms in the metropolitan area. Thus, employment decentralisation is the rational response of firms to the residential choices of a skilled labour force. The findings raise questions about the mobility of labour within metropolitan areas, and the impact of policies that would improve the mobility of less skilled labour between central cities and the suburban employment centres.

Suggested Citation

  • Maria Astrakianaki Aji, 1995. "Intra-metropolitan Productivity Variations of Selected Manufacturing and Business Service Sectors: What Can We Learn from Los Angeles?," Urban Studies, Urban Studies Journal Limited, vol. 32(7), pages 1081-1096, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:urbstu:v:32:y:1995:i:7:p:1081-1096
    DOI: 10.1080/00420989550012582
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Padeiro, Miguel, 2013. "Transport infrastructures and employment growth in the Paris metropolitan margins," Journal of Transport Geography, Elsevier, vol. 31(C), pages 44-53.

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