An analysis of spatial inequality in Tehran Metropolis: applying selected residential quality indicators to its 22 urban districts

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the distribution of residential quality indicators in the 22 districts of Tehran with emphasis on the urban inequality approach. The research method is descriptive-analytical and prescriptive with its scope being the 22 districts of Tehran in 2016. The TOPSIS model, Coefficient of Variation (CV), Moran's spatial autocorrelation, and Gi statistic (hot-spot analysis) have been used to analyze the data. Data were collected using library and documentary methods. The findings indicate that the 22 districts of Tehran have heterogeneity and divergence in terms of the selected residential quality indicators. This paper found a significant relationship between the quality of residence and social classes in Tehran. Throughout its development, the social classes of Tehran have become more distinct and its rich and poor districts – in the north, center and south of the metropolis – have separated more vividly. To solve the detrimental spatial inequality of Tehran and achieve sustainable development, the paper suggests the importance of applying the true nature of urban planning, especially in terms of residential planning primarily in the parts of the metropolis that inequality is predominantly observed.