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Learn the core mechanics of SimCity 2000, focusing on RCI zone ratios, property taxes, and their impact on city development and population growth. Essential for all players.

Residential, commercial, and industrial zones are the foundation of your SimCity 2000 city, forming your population and tax base. Everything else in the game exists to support these zones. Power and transit are also essential for a functioning city, but only RCI zones actively utilize transit. The game aims for a specific internal 'golden ratio' of RCI zones, which shifts as your city grows. The RCI demand meter offers guidance, but be aware it can fluctuate due to random factors and lag during rapid expansion.

Two key rules for the zone ratio are: R demand generally equals C+I demand (so R zones should be about 50% of your city), and I demand is high early on, evening out around 100k population, after which C demand surpasses I demand. For small cities (under 10k population), aim for a ratio of roughly 4 R, 1 C, and 3 I. After 10k, use the demand meters more closely, as they become more stable.

The 'correct' population ratio for very small cities is approximately 48% R, 11% C, and 41% I. Remember this is based on population, not land area. Industrial zones tend to develop more densely, and residential zones less so. Therefore, you might need slightly more R and less I land area to match the desired population ratio. The balance between C and I demand doesn't significantly shift until after 10k population.

Adhering to the proper RCI ratio is crucial for city development. You can overlook other factors like crime, pollution, and education with minimal consequences, as long as your zones are balanced, powered, and traffic is manageable. If a zone type isn't developing despite high demand, it likely lacks a valid transit path to the other two zone types.

Property taxes, defaulting to 7% for all zones, play a vital role. Increasing taxes to 9% strictly enforces the RCI zone ratio but maintains high demand for all types if adhered to. Lowering taxes provides more flexibility in zone development. Raising taxes above 9% can lead to uncontrollable population swings. On Easy mode, the default 7% offers a good balance of revenue and leniency, with adjustments of +/- 2% usually sufficient.