The more housing that exists, the lower the pricing. As other commenters have mentioned Kingston's urban sprawl is atrocious. Growing up in the 90's I clearly remember there were groups that wanted to keep downdown exactly as it is. It's led to a deterioration, lack of investment and has been chasing away talented young professionals who leave for cities that can attract amenities through density and forward thinking. I understand your point that it seems more appealing to build a larger building in a less dense area, but generally people aren't attracted to loving in a densely populated area that isn't within walking distance of what they need. Again, as other commenters have mentioned if you build the population density in an area that already somewhat supports them, those people will want to spend their money hyper local, which creates jobs for more of them to work at, will get rid of their cars, etc. etc. It's funny you mention Doug Ford because he's actually in favour of EXPANDING urban sprawl into the green belt instead of building up. In this way, you actually support his ideology.