Source: jedkolko.com
Contrary to current prevailing wisdom, the U.S. actually continues to suburbanize. The share of Americans living in urban neighborhoods dropped by 7%, from 21.7% in 2000 to 20.1% in 2014. Even looking at only the densest urban neighborhoods where about one-third of the urban population lives, the share of Americans living in these neighborhoods fell by 5%, from 7.4% in 2000 to 7.0% in 2014.
What has changed in urban environments is the demographics. Urban environments have become more rich and more childless. With the high number of infill apartments under construction, it will be interesting to look back in a few years and see who ultimately ends up occupying these buildings and if the projections of developers and real estate professionals alike will be proven right.