A review of human mobility: Linking data, models, and real-world applications

Abstract Human mobility, encompassing activities ranging from daily commutes to long-term migration, plays a critical role in shaping societal structures, economic activities, and cultural exchanges. Its complex and multifaceted nature, driven by factors such as socioeconomic conditions, technological advancements, policy interventions, and environmental changes, has made human mobility a central focus of interdisciplinary research across various domains. This review explores recent advancements in human mobility studies, focusing on the integration of diverse data sources to analyze movement patterns. Key models of human mobility are introduced, addressing both individual-level dynamics, such as individual travel behavior, and population-level phenomena, such as migration flows. Furthermore, this review summarizes the practical applications of human mobility, particularly in urban planning and epidemic modeling, highlighting the significant implications of a comprehensive understanding of human mobility. Understanding these dynamics is essential for developing data-driven strategies to enhance urban infrastructure, manage public health risks, optimize transportation networks, and respond effectively to global mobility trends.