Density

Density affects the density of buildings that spawn in an area, as well as creating visual effects like pavement and sidewalks. Along with Value, it is one of only two Heatmaps to affect which building designs are chosen. Density is the most important Heatmap in the game, as it is directly associated with the game's victory condition, the Skyscraper (a Density 9 Office Zone building). It is measured from 0 (Rural) to 10 (City Centre).

Density is increased by Value and Prosperity, but increases Crime and Pollution in the area. A number of Amenities directly increase the Density in an area. Amenities that contribute to other elements such as Law or Prosperity will also indirectly increase Density.

Density is also increased by good traffic flow through an area. The arterials connecting to major employment centers will develop Density as a result. The Retail zone also reliably increases Density in an area, and can be used to jumpstart denser development. The maximum Density of a city is also controlled by the city's Prestige.

Certain Amenities and Zones require a minimum Density. For zones requiring minimum Density, zones can be placed but will not develop any buildings unless the Density threshold is met, despite the presence of demand. The two zones that will not develop below a threshold density are Mixed Use and Industrial. When placing a zone, a maximum density can be set, beyond which larger buildings will not grow.