On the Population Density Distribution Across Space: A Probabilistic Approach

This paper develops a novel approach studying the distribution of the regional population density across space. We work in a Bayesian parametric framework. Exploiting the Gamma distribution, we are able to introduce heterogeneity across space without incurring any a priori definition of territorial units. Our contribution also allows the inclusion of an approximation of individual preferences as a further driving force in location choices. We perform an empirical application to the case of Massachusetts. Our results assess that a subjective measure of distance performs quite well in replicating the population distribution across Massachusetts.