Rethinking Gentrification and Displacement: Modeling the Demographic Impact of Urban Regeneration

Abstract

The urban research community tends to view gentrification-based displacement as the primary demographic impact of urban regeneration. This study reopens the discussion by asking whether urban regeneration in Israel does indeed work to the detriment of local homeowners, or whether it expands their opportunities for social mobility. By employing a micro-simulation model based on data pertaining to the households and the existing and planned apartments in the city, the study finds that whereas low-income residents are expected to be displaced, most of the middle-income homeowners will survive the process and benefit from a new apartment.