What defines “edge cities”?

Edge cities are characterized by suburban regions that serve as significant economic hubs, often emerging on the outskirts of traditional urban areas. This phenomenon typically arises as cities expand outward, leading to the development of areas where offices, retail outlets, and cultural facilities cluster. Unlike rural areas, edge cities are vibrant locales with a diverse range of economic activities. They often feature suburban business parks alongside shopping centers and residential communities, fostering a unique urban-suburban mix that attracts a workforce and clientele from nearby regions.

This definition is crucial in understanding how urbanization patterns are shifting, as edge cities play a pivotal role in the broader economic landscape. They represent the transformation of suburban spaces into important centers of commerce and employment, reflecting ongoing trends in urban growth and development. While other options describe various types of areas, they do not capture the essence of edge cities as economic centers within a suburban context.