This course will show you how economists look at cities. Do you know why cities exist? Why do some cities thrive but some cities shrink? Why are living costs so high in some cities? This course will walk you through these questions and provide answers through the lens of economics. I will help you understand how firms and households choose locations to maximize their utility. I will also touch on some cutting-edge urban studies if time permits.

After taking this course, students will be able to:

• identify the market forces which drive the ups and downs of cities.

• explain the rationale behind individual and firms’ choice of locations.

• illustrate how land rents / housing prices are affected by city characteristics.

• analyze the impacts of certain government policies on the development of cities.