AICP Practice Exam 2025 – The All-in-One Guide to Master the American Institute of Certified Planners Test!

A successful regional mall typically requires a population size of around 250,000 in its trade area to ensure a sufficient customer base to support the variety of retail offerings and amenities. This population threshold is significant because it facilitates a diverse mix of stores, restaurants, and services that attract a wide range of shoppers.

Having a critical mass of at least 250,000 people allows the mall to generate enough foot traffic and sales volume necessary to sustain its operations, including leasing space to multiple retailers. Retailers generally seek locations where their target demographics are present, and a larger population provides more opportunities to cater to different consumer preferences and spending habits.

This population size also plays a role in enhancing the mall’s appeal and viability. It not only supports a variety of stores and services but also encourages larger retailers to establish a presence in the mall. Without reaching this demographic threshold, the mall may struggle to attract sufficient customers, leading to lower sales, which can result in a failure to retain tenants and ultimately jeopardize the viability of the shopping center.