concentric-ring theory

Hypothetical pattern of land use within an urban area, where different activities occur at different distances from the urban centre. The result is a sequence of rings. The theory was first suggested by the US sociologist E W Burgess in 1925. He said that towns expand outwards evenly from an original core so that each zone grows by gradual colonization into the next outer ring.

In addition, the cost of land may decrease with increased distance from the city centre as demand for it falls. This means that commercial activity that can afford high land values will be concentrated in the city centre.