Economics
Commercial Gentrification and the Displacement of Urban Communities
Quick fact
Commercial gentrification often begins when a few artists or young professionals move into a low-income area; their presence attracts new cafes and shops, which then raise rents—sometimes doubling within a few years—forcing the original small businesses and residents to leave.
Why this is interesting
You've seen it happen: a neighborhood's corner bodega becomes a trendy juice bar. But what really drives that change, and who pays the price?