The keys to choosing an edge city are affordability, accessibility, mobility, and quality of life. Affordability means cops and teachers have a place to live reasonably nearby. Edge cities like Silicon Valley, California are unhealthy due to their lack of affordable housing. Accessibility concerns transportation to and from an edge city. Quality edge cities have easy connections to other metropolitan areas.
Mobility is the degree to which residents can get around within their edge city.
Traffic jams are indicative of mobility problems. Many other issues are categorized under quality of life. Civic investments in art museums, parks and public transportation are signs of healthy edge cities. The caliber of business present in edge cities is also important. Corporations know that people who live in edge cities are well educated and seek stores that compliment their intelligence.