In the Von Thünen land rent model, how does land rent change with distance from the market, and which crops are typically grown near the market?

• A. Rent decreases with distance from the market; perishable, high-value crops are grown near the market.
• B. Rent increases with distance from the market; staples are grown near the market.
• C. Rent remains constant with distance; all crops are grown near the market.
• D. Rent decreases with distance; only timber is grown near the market.

Answer: (A)

In the Von Thünen model, land rent is highest closest to the market and falls as you move away. This happens because transport costs rise with distance, so crops that spoil quickly and offer high prices—perishable, high-value crops—gain the most from being near the market where they can reach consumers quickly while still fresh. That’s why the land right around the market is devoted to intensive, high-value outputs like fruits, vegetables, and dairy. As you move farther out, rents decline and land is used for crops with longer shelf lives or lower value, such as staples, and eventually for forestry or grazing.