The Drivers of Long-Distance Commuting in Chile: The Role of the Spatial Distribution of Economic Activities

Long-distance commuting has emerged as an alternative to migration to equilibrate spatial labour markets. Coupled to changes in the labour and housing markets, technological advances have promoted long-distance commuting by reshaping the links between the spatial distribution of population and regional economies. While previous research has examined these links in developed countries, less is known about how these changes have played out in developing economies. Using micro-census data and regression analysis, this chapter addresses how contextual factors have shaped long-distance commuting in Chile. Our results reveal that the nature and spatial distribution of mining and construction activities have been the primary drivers of long-distance commuting in Chile. This contrasts with developed countries where, along with these activities, factors associated with the new service economy also comprise predominant forces encouraging long-distance commuting, particularly for those in high-skilled occupations.