As urbanization increased, cities became more expensive. While some saw the trend as unending, and as a possible positive for climate change, the trend now looks to be peaking. The higher cost of living in cities works well for those with the wealth and income; but wealth and income inequality are bifurcating the population. The rich can afford to live in the cities, and the poor (who are frequently young) must move.
“Trulia, a residential real estate site, found that between 2009 and 2014 the share of households making more than $100,000 rose by 3.6% in America’s 10 most expensive metro areas, while the number earning $30,000 or below fell by 2.2%.” – Quartz
While this seems obvious, one consequence is that the disparity has grown enough that the people providing the services enjoyed by the rich are less likely to be able to live near their jobs. Cities are now driving towards a gentrified core that relies on commuters for support. The diversity cities were known for is diminishing and the urbanization is reversing. The suburbs are becoming popular, or at least necessary, again.
(Click on the chart for the link.)
Pretending Not To Panic 