Family income segregation

2020
united states

Family income segregation refers to the unequal distribution of income levels among different households within a given community or society. This phenomenon leads to a separation of families by income level, resulting in distinct social and economic disparities between them.

Income segregation can manifest in various ways, such as the concentration of lower-income families in specific neighborhoods or the clustering of higher-income families in affluent areas. This segregation can be influenced by factors like housing prices, job opportunities, educational resources, and social networks.

The consequences of family income segregation are significant and multifaceted. They can include limited access to quality education, healthcare, and other essential services for lower-income families. It can also perpetuate a cycle of poverty, as families with limited resources may struggle to escape from disadvantaged neighborhoods. Moreover, income segregation can contribute to social tensions and reinforce existing socio-economic inequalities within a society.

Policies aimed at addressing income segregation often focus on providing affordable housing opportunities, improving educational resources in disadvantaged communities, and implementing targeted social programs to reduce income disparities. The goal is to create more equitable opportunities and bridge the gap between families with different income levels.

Further reading

Logan J.R.; Foster A.; Xu H.; Zhang W. (2020) "Income Segregation: Up or Down, and for Whom?", Demography, 57(5), pp. 1951-1974. Springer. DOI: 10.1007/s13524-020-00917-0