Urbanization in developed and developing countries has major drawbacks regarding air pollution, Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and congestion externalities due to transport in car-based cities. In this thesis, we study the effects of urban design on pollution, congestion, traveled distances and welfare. We build a theoretical model of residential choices with pollution and congestion externalities arising from commuting, where the location of jobs within the city is endogenous. Finally we collect data from French metropolitan areas to conduct an empirical analysis of spatial determinants of commuting time and distances. This thesis highlights the need of a cautious approach to implement some urban policies that would guarantee a sustainable...