Local Indicators of Spatial Association (LISA)

Local Indicators of Spatial Association (LISA) are statistical tools used to identify and analyze how specific geographic areas relate to their neighbors in terms of a particular attribute, such as income, crime, or health. LISA helps detect localized patterns—areas where high or low values cluster together, or where high values are surrounded by low ones, highlighting hotspots or cold spots. This analysis allows researchers and policymakers to understand not just overall trends but also the spatial structure and variations within a region, facilitating targeted interventions and informed decision-making.