Another kid-related reason that living in the city is popular here (Copenhagen) is that it really simplifies transportation of older kids, since they become mor

Another kid-related reason that living in the city is popular here (Copenhagen) is that it really simplifies transportation of older kids, since they become more self-sufficient. In a car-dependent area, kids are basically completely dependent on mom and dad to get anywhere, until age 18-19 or so. That is not convenient for either the kids or the parents, especially if both parents work (which they usually do). In the city, by contrast, kids can begin getting around on their own with bikes and/or transit by late elementary age. The exact age depends on how conservative parents are, and it's common to start out accompanying them on longer or less familiar trips, but by age 13-14 or so most kids have graduated to getting around entirely on their own. This doesn't strictly require a city; a compact town where kids can walk/bike everywhere would also be fine. But it does serve as a disincentive to raising kids in areas that are very car-oriented.