Researchers find that among the largest 100 metro regions in the U.S. , those with a larger middle class, provide higher economic mobility.
Researchers who worked on a study that some cities seem to create opportunities for upward economic mobility also discovered some interesting correlations. Higher economic mobility was related to the size of the city's middle class.
"Does the middle class get bigger because economic mobility allows previously poor people to join those ranks? Or do poor people have higher economic mobility because a broad middle class drives opportunity for everyone? A large middle class, for instance, might support a stronger school system, which in turn benefits the lower-income students who attend it. This study can't answer this key causal question."
Read the full story: Why the Size of Your City's Middle Class Matters Even if You're Not In It
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City of Rosemead
Rutgers University, Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy
One Hundred Miles
Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY)
The Architects Foundation
University of Cincinnati Online
City of Cambridge
Montrose County
The Pocatello Development Authority