Suburbanization of Ethnics of Color

Abstract

The suburbanization of ethnics of color made slow progress during the 1960s. The nation continued its long term trend towards dual societies. Only one major metro politan area, Los Angeles, was able to double the number of ethnics of color (blacks and Mexican-Americans) living outside the central city. However, the central city still became blacker, browner and poorer. The ethnics of color who migrated to the suburbs were middle class and had a high propensity toward homeownership. Rises in real income, an available housing supply, a lessening of dis crimination practices and an economically differentiated metropolitan area are variables that help explain the Los Angeles experience. Ethnics of color did not suburbanize in a random manner. They tended to locate in selected sub urban communities, forming flows to the southern and eastern sections of Los Angeles County. Most lived in segregated suburban neighborhoods. The goal of an integrated society is still far in the future.