The words that commonly pair with "north of the city" include "suburban," "outer," "northern," "northwestern," and "north-eastern." These terms are used to describe locations or areas that are situated to the north of a city's central district. The choice of word often depends on the context and the specific characteristics of the area being referred to.

For instance, "suburban" is often used to describe residential areas that are on the outskirts of a city, characterized by lower population density and a more residential character compared to the city center. This term is particularly relevant in the United States, where suburbanization has been a significant trend since the mid-20th century.

Outer" is another term that implies a location further away from the city center, often indicating a more rural or less developed area. It suggests a gradual expansion of the city's boundaries.

Northern" is a more straightforward term that simply indicates the direction of the location in relation to the city's center. It is a basic descriptor that can be used in various contexts.

Northwestern" and "north-eastern" are more specific directional terms that combine the north with another cardinal direction, indicating a more precise location within the city's northern quadrant.

Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and urban planning studies support the use of these terms. For example, the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS) provides detailed demographic and housing data that often includes information about the suburbanization trends and the expansion of city boundaries. Urban planning studies also frequently use these terms to describe and analyze the spatial characteristics of cities and their surrounding areas.

In conclusion, the words that pair with "north of the city" are "suburban," "outer," "northern," "northwestern," and "north-eastern," each serving to describe the specific characteristics and location of areas relative to the city's central district. The choice of term is influenced by the context and the specific attributes of the area being discussed.