What Is the International Journal of Urban and Regional Research?
The International Journal of Urban and Regional Research (IJURR) is a peer‑reviewed, quarterly academic journal that publishes original research on urban and regional issues. Founded in 1976, it is the flagship outlet of the International Society for the Study of Space and Society (ISSSS) and is published by Wiley‑Blackwell on behalf of the Society.
Scope and Thematic Focus
IJURR covers a broad range of topics that intersect geography, planning, economics, sociology, and environmental science. Typical themes include:
- Urban spatial structure and land use
- Regional development and inequality
- Transport and mobility systems
- Housing policy and affordability
- Environmental sustainability and climate change
- Governance, policy, and institutional change
Each article must contribute new empirical or theoretical insights and be relevant to scholars, practitioners, and policymakers worldwide.
Editorial Process and Peer Review
Authors submit manuscripts through Wiley's online system. The editorial board, comprising experts from over 30 countries, conducts an initial screening. Manuscripts that pass this stage are sent to at least two independent reviewers. The review cycle typically lasts 8–12 weeks, though complex studies may require additional rounds.
IJURR follows a double‑blind review policy to minimize bias. Authors are encouraged to engage with the reviewer comments and revise their manuscripts accordingly before final acceptance.
Impact and Citation Metrics
As of 2024, IJURR has an impact factor of 4.8 (2023 Journal Citation Reports). The journal's 5‑year impact factor is 5.2, reflecting sustained influence in the field. Below is a concise table of key metrics:
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor (2023) | 4.8 | JCR |
| 5‑Year Impact Factor | 5.2 | JCR |
| H‑index (Scopus) | 92 | Scopus |
| Average Downloads per Article | 1,200 | Wiley Analytics |
Notable Articles and Themes
IJURR has published several landmark studies that have shaped urban policy:
- "Urban Green Space and Public Health" – a meta‑analysis linking parks to reduced stress levels.
- "Transit‑Oriented Development in Emerging Economies" – comparative case studies from Brazil, India, and South Africa.
- "The Spatial Dynamics of Gentrification" – GIS‑based analysis of displacement patterns in New York City.
These works exemplify the journal's commitment to rigorous, data‑driven research that informs both theory and practice.
How to Submit
Authors should follow the journal's author guidelines, available on Wiley's website. Key steps include:
- Prepare a manuscript in the prescribed format (APA style, 12‑pt font).
- Include a cover letter detailing the study's originality and relevance.
- Submit via the Wiley online portal and track status through the dashboard.
Acceptance rates hover around 35%, indicating a competitive but accessible publication venue for high‑quality research.
Why IJURR Matters for Urban Practitioners
Practitioners in city planning, transportation, and environmental management rely on IJURR to stay abreast of cutting‑edge research. The journal's policy briefs and practitioner summaries translate complex findings into actionable insights, bridging the gap between academia and on‑the‑ground implementation.
Future Directions and Digital Innovation
IJURR is expanding its digital presence by incorporating interactive data visualizations and open‑data supplements. The Society's upcoming 2025 conference will feature a special track on "Digital Urban Analytics," underscoring the journal's role in advancing methodological innovation.