Determining the Optimal Size of Isfahan City

In this article, to determine the optimal size of the Isfahan city, we used model of Camagni, Capello and Caragliu that it is based on urban costs and benefits. In this model, population is the key factor that causes more benefits and costs and optimum population occurs where the marginal benefits and marginal costs meet each other. Among all urban costs, the urban household expenditures, air pollution, the waiting time in traffic, local taxes and housing rent are considered. Also among all urban benefits has drawn attention the productivity and production of city. The total cost function and benefit function were estimated in period 1361-1391 and finally by equalizing marginal cost and benefit, optimized city size of Isfahan was estimated to 537017 people. The present population of Isfahan is so far from the optimum size.