Transit-triggered migration: Investigating factors influencing residential decisions to relocate near the MRT Yellow Line station in Bangkok

This study investigates the factors influencing individuals' perceptions and decisions about relocating or staying in neighborhoods surrounding the MRT Yellow Line in Bangkok. It examines general factors, travel-related factors, and the quality of service provided by the MRT Yellow Line. Data collection was conducted in two areas: the treatment neighborhood, affected by the MRT Yellow Line, and the comparison neighborhood, which is not influenced by any rapid transit system. If the factors affecting relocation decisions in the treatment neighborhood differ from those in the comparison neighborhood, it will suggest that the evaluated factors are indeed influenced by the MRT Yellow Line. The findings indicate that factors such as age, occupation, average household income, number of family members, homeownership status, length of residence, and the reliability of the MRT Yellow Line affect migration intentions. When comparing these factors with those from a nearby area unaffected by the Yellow Line, it becomes evident that age, occupation, average monthly household income, and household size significantly influence moving-out decisions. This suggests that these factors impacting residents' relocation choices are indeed influenced by the MRT Yellow Line. Additionally, the findings indicate that factors such as age, occupation, education, marital status, trends in rent or land values, travel convenience, and the extent of service provided by the MRT Yellow Line significantly influence residents' perceptions. Overall, this research enhances our understanding of the complex dynamics between transit infrastructure, demographic characteristics, and residents' perceptions and migration decisions in urban areas. Several policy recommendations can be derived from this study to help mitigate out-migration among residents affected by the operation of rail transit systems in their area.