Neighborhood income segregation

Date and country of first publication

2019
United States

Definition

Neighborhood income segregation refers to the division of different socioeconomic groups within residential areas. It occurs when individuals with similar income levels tend to cluster together geographically, leading to the separation of affluent and low-income neighborhoods.

There are several factors that contribute to neighborhood income segregation. One key factor is housing affordability. Higher-income individuals often have greater access to quality housing that is located in desirable neighborhoods, while lower-income individuals may be limited to more affordable but often disadvantaged areas.

Another factor is social and economic disparities. Individuals from different income brackets often have different opportunities and resources available to them, which can perpetuate income segregation. For example, high-income neighborhoods may have better schools, healthcare facilities, and infrastructure, while low-income areas may lack these resources.

Neighborhood income segregation can have significant social and economic implications. It can contribute to the perpetuation of poverty and inequality, as individuals in low-income neighborhoods may face limited access to quality education, healthcare, and job opportunities.

Moreover, income segregation can lead to social isolation and limited social mobility, as individuals from different income groups have limited interaction and exchange. This can result in the creation of distinct communities with different cultural norms, social networks, and opportunities, further reinforcing income disparities.

Efforts to address neighborhood income segregation include policies aimed at providing affordable housing opportunities in affluent neighborhoods, improving the quality of amenities and services in disadvantaged areas, enforcing anti-discrimination laws, and promoting economic opportunities in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods.

Reducing neighborhood income segregation is essential for fostering social integration, equal access to resources, and creating more inclusive and equitable communities.

Related segregation forms

Neighborhood income segregation is frequently discussed in the literature with the following segregation forms:

residential income segregation, residential segregation, social segregation

This visualization is based on the study The Multidisciplinary Landscape of Segregation Research.

For the complete network of interrelated segregation forms, please refer to:

• First year of publication

• Louvain clusters

• Betweenness centrality

• Disciplines in which segregation forms first emerged (Scopus database).

Notes

At its current state, this definition has been generated by a Large Language Model (LLM) so far without review by an independent researcher or a member of the curating team of segregation experts that keep the Segregation Wiki online. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee its reliability, completeness and timeliness. Please use this content with caution and verify information as needed. Also, feel free to improve on the definition as you see fit, including the use of references and other informational resources. We value your input in enhancing the quality and accuracy of the definitions of segregation forms collectively offered in the Segregation Wiki ©.

Neighborhood income segregation appears in the following literature

Galster G., Turner L.M. (2019). Status Aversion, Attraction and Discrepancy as Drivers of Neighborhood Selection. City and Community, 18(3), 937-964. Blackwell Publishing Ltd.https://doi.org/10.1111/cico.12435

South S.J., Huang Y., Spring A. (2022). Proximate sources of growth in neighborhood income segregation: Class selective migration versus in situ change. Social Science Research, 101(), -. Academic Press Inc..https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ssresearch.2021.102624