Report: The Pros and Cons of Texas Cities’ Gentrification

When it comes to gentrification, most common examples are coastal cities, such as San Francisco and New York City. However, Texas’ four major metros have also experienced the phenomenon. Yichen Su with the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas said that, according to research, college-educated, affluent residents are filling up housing in and around the urban centers of Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio. The result of this offers positives and negatives.

On the positive side, the influx of affluent newcomers means improved neighborhood amenities, such as shops and restaurants. An enhanced law-enforcement presence is also a feature. However, the increasing costs of gentrification also mean central-city living is out-of-reach for low-income households and at-risk populations.

Su also noted that the causes of gentrification range from lower urban crime rates, to a stronger preference for nightlife offered in central business districts. Long commutes are another reason for the central-city preferences, Su said.

Pictured: The gentrified historic Pearl District, San Antonio

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