The spatial variation in unemployment and labour force participation rates of male and female workers

Lillydahl J. H. and Singell L. D. (1985) The spatial variation in unemployment and labour force participation rates of male and female workers, Reg. Studies 19, 459–469. This paper investigates the spatial patterns of male and female unemployment and labour force participation rates. The theoretical underpinnings for differences in work and residential choices for males and females are reviewed. Census tract data from five metropolitan areas in the United States are examined. We find that no significant pattern exists for overall labour market activity; however, when male and female unemployment and participation rates are analysed separately, significant and dissimilar spatial patterns exist for each. Hence, returns from relocating industry, improving transportation, investing in human capital or providing job information need to be evaluated in sex-specific terms.