DETERMINANTS OF RESIDENTIAL LOCATION CHOICE IN THE TRI-CITIES OF SINDH

Abstract

Rapid urbanization in Pakistan's Sindh province has intensified competition for residential spaces in interconnected urban clusters like Hyderabad, Kotri, and Jamshoro. This study explores the socio-economic and environmental factors influencing residents' location choices within these tri-cities, employing a quantitative survey of 350 households. Using multinomial logistic regression and ordinary least squares (OLS) models, the analysis identifies accessibility to services (β = 0.804, p < 0.001) and green spaces (β = 0.663, p < 0.001) as the strongest predictors of location preference scores, surpassing proximity to employment and pollution concerns. Descriptive profiles reveal that 45% of respondents prefer Hyderabad for its economic vibrancy, despite higher pollution levels (mean = 6.2/10). Comparative insights highlight Kotri's appeal for affordability amid industrial growth, while Jamshoro attracts education-oriented families. Findings align with Alonso's bid-rent theory, adapted to developing contexts, and address gaps in mid-sized South Asian urban dynamics. Policy implications include zoning reforms to enhance green infrastructure and equitable access, fostering sustainable development. Limitations encompass self-reported biases and exclusion of transient migrants. This research advances urban planning discourse by quantifying predictors in a polycentric tri-city framework.