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Population growth and the development of a central place system

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Abstract

This paper describes the spatial and functional evolution of a central place system as market conditions change with population growth. Utilizing a partial equilibrium optimization model, we examine the spatial response of two economic sectors to increases in market populations resulting from natural increase and migration. Response in both sectors is conditioned by threshold demand, with factor prices also affecting one of the sectors. As the central place system evolves it exhibits spatial and functional characteristics that are initially consistent with a Löschian landscape, then a Christallerian landscape at higher populations, while at even larger populations Krugman’s landscape emerges.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Geography, University of Connecticut, 215 Glenbrook Road, Unit 4148, Storrs, CT, 06269-4148, USA

    Robert G. Cromley & Dean M. Hanink

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  1. Robert G. Cromley
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  2. Dean M. Hanink
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Correspondence to Robert G. Cromley.

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Cromley, R.G., Hanink, D.M. Population growth and the development of a central place system. J Geogr Syst 10, 383–405 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10109-008-0071-7

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