Town and Country Planning

Town and Country Planning

Quantitative Analysis of the Spatial Pattern of Urban Happiness and Socio-Economic Determinants: A Multi-Method Analysis in Khorramabad

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
1 Department of Geography and Urban Planning, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran
2 Department of Geography and Rural Planning, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
10.22059/jtcp.2026.417063.670562
Abstract
Objective: This study, adopting an analytical–explanatory approach, aims to analyze the spatial pattern of urban happiness in Khorramabad and to explain the role of socio‑economic determinants in its distribution. Methodology: The statistical population of the study consists of 400 residents of Khorramabad, recruited using a simplified stratified random sampling method. The sample size in each of the nine urban districts was determined and allocated proportionally to their population weight to maintain sampling validity. Data analysis was conducted using AMOS, SPSS, and GIS software. Results: The results of the one‑way analysis of variance indicated significant differences in happiness indicators among the nine districts of Khorramabad, reflecting spatial inequality in access to the components of a happy urban life. Furthermore, the results of structural equation modeling revealed a positive and significant relationship between happiness and the dimensions of socio‑economic status. Among these dimensions, income has the greatest effect on happiness with a coefficient of 0.48, followed by employment with a coefficient of 0.43, and education with a coefficient of 0.40. Accordingly, economic stability, job security, and educational capital are considered among the key pillars of urban happiness. The spatial analysis of the nine districts also showed considerable differences in the level of social happiness indicators; the districts of Shirkhargah, Qaziabad–Kioo, and East Goldasht fall into the highly advantaged category, the districts of Hoseynabad and Naser Khosrow fall into the advantaged category, and the districts of 107‑Hectare, Meydan‑e Tir, and Azadegan fall into the disadvantaged category. Conclusion: Overall, the findings indicate that urban happiness in Khorramabad follows an unequal spatial pattern, and the socio‑economic status of citizens plays a decisive role in shaping this distribution. Therefore, reducing economic inequalities and improving equitable access to urban services can contribute to enhancing urban happiness and achieving spatial justice.
Keywords
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Volume 18, Issue 1
Spring & Summer 2026
April 2026
Pages 215-234

  • Receive Date 21 June 2026
  • Revise Date 26 August 2026
  • Accept Date 31 August 2026