The Cost of Segregation: National Trends and the Case for Chicago

Urban Institute

Segregation is associated with many negative effects. It concentrates social, economic, and environmental resources and hazards, and it harms people living in distressed and isolated neighborhoods. Regions with high degrees of segregation stratify access to education and other public services, opportunities for social interaction, and labor market prospects.

But what are the costs of segregation on metropolitan regions? How does segregation diminish economic vibrancy in a region and its residents’ earnings potential?

This report finds that building more inclusive regions can deliver dividends that come through providing greater access to opportunity. Explore the report and the interactive resources below.