The residential and commuting distance nexus across borders

Cross-border commuting stands as a significant type of mobility within the fields of urban and regional studies, influencing economic, social, transportation and regional development policies. This dissertation aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the individual and geographical characteristics that influence French residents when it comes to accepting job opportunities on the other side of the French border. By exploring various aspects of cross-border commuting, from individual-level determinants to aggregate-level effects, this research endeavors to shed light on the complexities and dynamics of this unique form of commuting. Chapter 2 consists of a systematic literature review, where we delve into existing studies on cross-border commuting. This review allows us to identify key challenges and determinants that shape individuals’ choices in engaging in cross-border work. Understanding the relevant literature serves as a foundation for the subsequent
chapters, guiding our investigation towards the most crucial factors that influence cross-border commuting patterns. In Chapter 3, we conduct a multinomial logit analysis to explore individual-level factors influencing commuting decisions for every worker in France. This examination involves considering both individual and geographic effects, such as urban and suburban environments and relative job accessibility within France, as well as different border zones. This approach allows us to gain insights into the heterogeneity of cross-border commuting decisions across various contexts. In Chapter 4, we adopt an aggregate perspective, employing spatial interaction model estimates to investigate the impact of distance on cross-border commuting as compared to commuting within France. Utilizing a flow matrix that includes all municipalities of origin and destination within France and across the border (only for the latter), we can discern the role of distance as a determining factor in cross-border commuting patterns. In Chapter 5, we go back to the individual level. We aim to identify the determinants of commuting distance, making a distinction between cross-border and internal commutes. This analysis employs Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) and Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) techniques to explore the factors influencing commuting distances in different contexts. Overall, this dissertation contributes to the growing body of knowledge on cross-border commuting by providing insights into the various characteristics that influence it. We highlight that geographical characteristics are essential to be considered by analysts, since they provide a significant added value. Moreover, the effect of commuting distance is confirmed to be an important restraining factor. The effect of crossing different borders is analyzed, as well, proving that borders are an obstacle. Nevertheless, some borders appear to be easier to cross than others. By encompassing both individual and aggregate perspectives, this research contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of cross-border commuting and its implications on individuals and regions alike.