Urbanization has long been seen as a pathway to economic opportunity—providing access to jobs, higher incomes, and improved quality of life. 

Flathead screwdriver and and a wrench forming an XYet for many, the move from rural to urban areas is constrained by housing shortages, informal labor markets, and inadequate infrastructure. At CID, our research in labor and urban economics explores how to make cities engines of inclusive and sustainable growth.

Faculty affiliates from across Harvard study labor market dynamics, wage trends, housing affordability, employment patterns, and the role of public policy in shaping urban economic outcomes. From analyzing transportation systems and migration flows to examining how urbanization influences inequality and mobility, CID researchers are generating insights to guide smarter, more equitable urban development.

 

Harvard CID Faculty Affiliates Shaping the Future of Work and Cities

Edward L. Glaeser headshot

Edward L. Glaeser

Fred and Eleanor Glimp Professor of Economics, Harvard University

Gordon Hanson headshot

Gordon Hanson

Academic Dean for Strategy and Engagement; Peter Wertheim Professor in Urban Policy, Harvard Kennedy School

Raffaella Sadun headshot

Raffaella Sadun

Charles Edward Wilson Professor of Business Administration, Harvard Business School

Livia Alfonsi headshot

Livia Alfonsi

Associate Professor of Business Administration, Harvard Business School


 

gabriel kriendler headshot

Gabriel Kreindler

Assistant Professor of Economics, Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences


 

Jorge Tamayo headshot

Jorge Tamayo

Assistant Professor of Business Administration, Harvard Business School

CID Faculty Affiliates

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CID Faculty Publications 

Read the latest research from CID faculty affiliates on labor and urban economics, covering topics such as employment trends, wage dynamics, urbanization, housing markets, and the future of work. These publications offer data-driven insights to inform policy and drive inclusive economic development.

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Explore research from Harvard CID faculty affiliates addressing critical questions around employment, urbanization, and economic opportunity.

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