In the Mix: Middle Housing and Income Diversity in Atlanta
The following information is based on an applied research paper by Caledonia Orsini (MCRP '20). Applied research papers are completed by MCRP students as practice-oriented alternatives to theses. These papers utilize practical skills and draw conclusions related to professional planning practice.
This study explores a correlation between Atlanta’s modest supply of middle housing (often referred to as “missing middle”), and income diversity among residents. While Atlanta has historically been one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the country, it also leads the country in income inequality and is severely spatially segregated. Integrating more middle housing is one step towards a more equitable city.
Regression Analysis
A multiple regression analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between levels of income diversity and the percent of middle housing in Atlanta block groups. These variables were significantly and positively correlated, indicating that the more middle housing a neighborhood has, the greater its level of income diversity.
More Information on Missing Middle and Income Diversity
