Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0009-0003-2376-4126

Document Type

Thesis

Date of Award

6-18-2025

Keywords

Spatial clustering analysis, Sustainable development goals, United States, Urban expansion, Urban land use efficiency, LCRPGR, SDG

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Geography

First Advisor

Adam Mathews

Second Advisor

Wan Yu

Third Advisor

Jay Newberry

Abstract

This study evaluates urban land use efficiency across the contiguous United States from 2000 to 2020 using the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Indicator 11.3.1, which measures the ratio of Land Consumption Rate (LCR) to Population Growth Rate (PGR). Leveraging NLCD Impervious Surface data and WorldPop population estimates, the study calculates the LCRPGR indicator for 2,229 urban areas and examines regional and temporal trends. Results indicate that urban land area increased by 23% over two decades, while population grew by 31%, suggesting a moderate trend toward densification. The median LCRPGR declined from 0.838 (2000–2010) to 0.627 (2010–2020), signaling improved land use efficiency, although significant regional disparities persist. K-means and K-medians clustering reveal spatial variations in urban growth patterns, with older cities and western urban areas exhibiting more compact development. Comparative analysis with international cases and literature suggests that U.S. cities are gradually transitioning from expansive to more sustainable growth models. This research highlights the utility of LCRPGR in diagnosing urban development efficiency and underscores the need for integrated spatial planning and policy interventions to achieve sustainable urbanization in developed contexts.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.

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