YEREVAN'S COMMUTER TOWNS

Yerevan’s rapid urban transformation over the past two decades has intensified density in the city center while suburban settlements have expanded in an unplanned manner, often reducing green space and worsening environmental conditions, including air quality.  This research study, Yerevan’s Commuter Towns, evaluates how towns within the commuter belt can serve as sustainable alternatives to dense central living. The study identifies towns around Yerevan that remain within easy reach of the urban core while offering improved environmental conditions, greater contact with nature, and lower living costs.

Using a comprehensive methodology, the analysis assesses each commuter town for expansion potential, accessibility, and environmental performance. Accessibility rankings consider both vehicular and bicycle mobility to determine commuter efficiency, while climate analysis evaluates variation in seasonal comfort based on altitude and precipitation. Air quality assessments identify environmental risk factors influenced by industrial activities and traffic emissions.  Mapping of smart technologies, cultural amenities, and educational facilities further enriches quality of life assessments, highlighting how regional infrastructure supports community needs.

The study’s comprehensive ranking system identifies leading commuter towns such as Dzoraghbyur, Arzni, and Ptghni, which combine proximity to Yerevan with favorable environmental performance and expansion capacity.  By providing data-driven insights into suburban settlement dynamics and metropolitan connectivity, the project offers strategic guidance for sustainable residential planning and regional development in the Yerevan metropolitan area.