In his article 'The next slum?' published in 'The Atlantic', Christopher B. Leinberger illustrates the decline of the American suburb. Once the ideal for happy family living, demographic trends now promote an increasingly urban way of life. Urban neighbourhoods are gentrifying rapidly as developers have discovered the new housing trends.  As a result, the once low prices for city houses and apartments are skyrocketing.

At the same time, developers are also finding new ways to bring the city to newer suburbs. By building so-called lifestyle centres, suburban areas are supposed to get access to urban functions such as movie theatres, restaurants and shops.

Nevertheless, many suburbs and especially large-lot suburban houses are expected to become obsolete. The suburban towns far away from a central city will particularly suffer, experts predict. Despite the fact that these areas may become magnets for poverty, crime and social problems, the shift toward urban living may also promote a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. As the author states, 'if New York City were a state, it would be the most energy-efficient state because most residents walk or take public transport to get around, and they unintentionally share heat with their upstairs neighbours.'

Source: The Atlantic Online