Western Europe is densely populated due to its temperate climate suitable for agriculture, fertile land, good infrastructure, job opportunities, and political/religious freedom. Bangladesh is also densely populated because its fertile soil and climate ideal for rice cultivation provide abundant food and livelihoods. The Eastern US seaboard around cities like New York is densely populated historically due to being the first landing point for European immigrants, and remains so due to attractions of large cities. The Amazon rainforest and Sahara desert are sparsely populated due to challenging climates, lack of infrastructure, and few economic opportunities.