What term describes residential areas located on the edge of towns or cities?

The term that accurately describes residential areas located on the edge of towns or cities is 'suburbs.' Suburbs refer to the regions adjacent to the urban core, characterized by primarily residential developments. They often feature a mix of housing, schools, parks, and commercial areas and typically provide a quieter living environment compared to the inner city.

In many cases, suburbs are designed to accommodate families seeking both proximity to urban job markets and a more spacious living area compared to densely populated city centers. This pattern of development typically results in a lower population density and a greater reliance on personal vehicles for commuting to urban jobs and services.

While 'urban fringe' may also pertain to areas at the boundary of cities, it encompasses a broader zone that might include a mix of agricultural land, informal settlements, or even industrial areas rather than specifically residential neighborhoods. 'Metropolis' refers to a significant urban center often serving as a hub for economic and cultural activity, and 'exurbs' describe areas that are even further out than suburbs, usually characterized by lower population density and larger properties, which is not the case for the more directly adjacent residential areas known as suburbs.