> Prices in big dense cities say otherwise, there is plenty of demand to be where all the economic action is, many people also prefer urban lifestyles. Prices

> Prices in big dense cities say otherwise, there is plenty of demand to be where all the economic action is, many people also prefer urban lifestyles. Prices just show urban areas are highly valued, there is no proof those areas defy supply and demand. Density increases attractiveness for some people, but the trade-offs are clearly not for everyone given NIMBYism and higher prices outside some urban areas. Increasing supply may increase demand to a point, but there is still an equilibrium - density is still part of the solution. > The lack of zoning doesn't encourage density at all, if there is land to build out instead of up, everyone will prefer the former because its cheaper and can provide amenities like free parking. Zoning can prevent that, it can also discourage vertical growth but at the same time discouraging horizontal growth as well. Moot point, this entire discussion is about urban areas where land has already run out. > if there is land to build out instead of up, everyone will prefer the former because its cheaper and can provide amenities like free parking. "Everyone", except people that care about the time cost of commuting and the financial obligation of car ownership.