Grace Armstrong

Abstract:

New York City is known as the melting pot of the world. Individuals of all different backgrounds have been moving to New York City for centuries in pursuit of a better life. For a long time New York City was accessible to lower income families and individuals. However, today being able to find affordable housing in New York City is almost impossible. Additionally the lack of funding and accessibility to public housing has decreased over the past decade. Previous research shows how housing within New York City has changed overtime. As well as the reasons for these changes. This study aims to dig deeper through interviews of residents from all different backgrounds living within the city. To understand the potential reasons for this increase in rent prices over the years, and elevated cost of living. The interviews conducted show how over the past decade New York City as a whole has become much more gentrified and elitist, with real estate only targeting a specific demographic.