Which of the following is a socio-economic consequence of high population density?

High population density often leads to overcrowding in living conditions, which is a direct socio-economic consequence. When many people live in a small area, the demand for housing increases significantly. This can result in cramped living spaces, inadequate sanitation, and a lack of privacy, negatively affecting the overall quality of life.

Overcrowding can also strain local infrastructure, such as public transportation, schools, and health services, making it difficult for residents to access these essential amenities. This not only impacts individuals’ living standards but also places pressure on local governments to improve and expand services to accommodate the dense population. The implications of overcrowding can contribute to various social issues, including increased crime rates, higher unemployment levels, and public health challenges, thereby affecting the socio-economic fabric of the community.

In contrast, other options illustrate scenarios that typically do not arise from high population density. For example, decreased competition for jobs is unlikely because more people generally lead to increased competition. Similarly, abundant resources and infrastructure are not common outcomes of high density; facilities often become strained rather than thriving. Lastly, increased rural development is generally associated with low population density as communities expand outward rather than within concentrated urban settings.