Are there studies on the effect of rail transit on property values?
Yes, studies and reports on rail systems’ effect on property values throughout the United States have been published. The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) has compiled a Resource Guide that collected reports on rail transit and property values from cities including Dallas, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago and San Diego. The Resource Guide provides evidence that rail transit can have a positive impact on residential and commercial property values. Because of the enhanced regional access provided by a light rail station, nearby locations can be very appealing to potential homeowners, renters and owners of commercial and retail businesses. Many other factors affect property values as well, but proximity to a rail station is likely to be positive. You can find the APTA Resource Guide along with citations of the original studies on-line.
