Territorial Disparities and Internal Migration: An Analysis Based on Spatial Equilibrium

Abstract

This study examines the variations in living conditions and migration patterns across Ecuador’s cantons. It discusses how the costs and benefits of the different cantons offset one another, evaluating the relationship between various welfare indicators and population density. A model relating the net migration rate to productivity and various amenities is estimated. The results indicate that, despite their higher productivity, the more densely populated cantons do not compensate for higher costs through substantially higher wages, but through better amenities and higher consumption. Homicides and suburbanization processes were the main factors associated with net migration rates.