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Transportation and housing markets in cities

Author

Listed:
  • Miquel-Àngel Garcia-López

    (Department of Applied Economics, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona and Institut d’Economia de Barcelona)

  • Rosa Sanchis-Guarner

    (Universitat de Barcelona and Institut d’Economia de Barcelona)

  • Elisabet Viladecans-Marsal

    (Universitat de Barcelona, Institut d’Economia de Barcelona and CEPR)

Abstract

This paper surveys recent literature estimating the causal effects of urban transport investments and urban mobility policies on housing markets. We synthesise evidence along three dimensions: the capitalisation of accessibility gains, the internalisation of transport-related externalities, and the rise of green mobility initiatives. Results indicate that while improved accessibility is generally capitalised into higher property values, negative externalities—such as noise, pollution, and congestion—can attenuate or reverse these effects. Policies such as congestion pricing, zoning reforms, and low-emission zones also influence these outcomes, highlighting how institutions, network design, and local environmental conditions shape the housing market’s response to transport investments. Recent green interventions in city centres have shown an even stronger impact on housing prices, although they can also create spillover effects in nearby neighbourhoods.

Suggested Citation

  • Miquel-Àngel Garcia-López & Rosa Sanchis-Guarner & Elisabet Viladecans-Marsal, 2026. "Transportation and housing markets in cities," Working Papers wpdea2601, Department of Applied Economics at Universitat Autonoma of Barcelona.
  • Handle: RePEc:uab:wprdea:wpdea2601
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    References listed on IDEAS

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