Geographical mobility patterns in the Riga agglomeration: comparison of inner and outer zones

Janis Krumins

University of Latvia, Faculty of Geography and Earth Sciences

DOI: 10.22364/fg.15.24

Keywords: internal migration, Riga agglomeration, suburbanisation

Abstract

The main aim of this research is to evaluate patterns of internal migration in the Rīga Metropolitan Area, and to 1) describe how the proximity of Rīga along with socio-economic and socio-demographical differences between zones affects migration flows, 2) to analyze if there are any tendencies regarding changes within composition of the population, and to 3) see if there are any changes between migration potentials and motivating factors to move between two zones. After summarizing research data, it is possible to conclude that the municipalities of an internal zone, in comparison to the external zone, have: 1) higher internal migration flow amounts in both directions (to and from Rīga); 2) higher total share of pre-working and working age people (81,3 vs 78,5%); 3) lower percentages of inhabitants who are living in their current residence for at least 10 years (58 vs 69%); 4) higher desire to change their place of residence in following years (72,8 vs 66,9%). Such differences suggest that the internal zone has a more floating population composition and a higher potential for mobility. The proximity of Rīga makes the internal zone an attractive environment for new families with children; however, high economic standards (high taxes, real estate prices) characteristic to this area contribute to migration.