A generation ago, the American dream was based in the suburbs. After an economic downturn and a housing crash, the upcoming generations have their own version of the American dream, and it looks decidedly more urban.
In fact, while more people are moving back to cities in search of better jobs and more conveniences, suburbs have been struggling to survive. That is why more suburbs are turning to urbanization to revitalize their communities.
This process of urbanization is taking place across the country from New Rochelle, New York, to San Ramon, California. These suburbs have lost a lot of residents in recent years, leading to structural decay and economic stagnancy. To combat dwindling population numbers, these suburbs have changed the community focus. Shopping malls are being exchanged for office buildings. High rise buildings are replacing empty storefronts, combining commercial space with apartments.
More commercial development attracts businesses, which is critical in a time when workers are in desperate need of jobs. By including downtown living space, these communities can appeal to younger workers, who have an interest in keeping their lives simple. Smaller apartments are not only more affordable, but they give these young people more flexibility while they get their financial standing.
This urbanization is still a relatively new phenomenon so it is impossible to say how long it will last or how successful it will be. However, as society continues to evolve, this new definition of the suburb may still be part of the American dream after all.