Gentrification is a general term for the arrival of wealthier people in an existing urban district, a related increase in rents and property values, and changes in the district's character and culture. Many aspects of the gentrification process are desirable. Who wouldn't want to see reduced crime, new investment in buildings and infrastructure, and increased economic activity in their neighborhoods? Unfortunately, the benefits of these changes are often enjoyed disproportionately by the new arrivals, while the established residents find themselves economically and socially marginalized.

PROS Redevelopment or renovation of housing stock Revitalization of the tax base Increased homeownership rates Economic opportunities De-concentration of poverty Historic preservation CONS Displacement of lower income residents Lack of affordable housing Decrease in multi-family rental units Loss of diversity in neighborhood businesses and residents Conversion of residential units to commercial property Decrease in social services for lower-income residents

Houston’s fourth ward

Gentrification tracts in Houston data.html Gentrification in Houston maps Compare 1990 to 2000, 2000 to 2010 See tract 1000 downtown

Fifth Ward

Fourth Ward

Many cities are organic. They grow, mature, age, and potentially grow again. Whites flee creating zones in transitionThe poor move in Cheap land values draw the wealthy back in The “old “neighborhood” is torn down

The Heights – Houston, Texas Retirees and boomers without kids move in.

Other urban areas

As the poor are pushed out by rising land values, they are moved to other neighborhoods. In many cases (Cypress is an example) they move into government subsidized apartments in the suburbs.