What effect does residential segregation have on communities?

Residential segregation has a significant impact on communities, particularly in how it affects access to resources. When neighborhoods are divided along racial, ethnic, or socioeconomic lines, certain groups often find themselves in areas with limited access to essential services such as quality education, healthcare, employment opportunities, and safe living conditions. This lack of access can lead to greater disparities in health outcomes, economic stability, and overall quality of life.

Segregation creates a scenario where marginalized groups experience systemic barriers that can perpetuate poverty and limit upward mobility. These constraints are often compounded by reduced political representation and fewer community development initiatives. Consequently, individuals in segregated communities may have to rely on limited local resources, which can be insufficient or of lower quality compared to those available in more integrated neighborhoods.

Thus, the effect of residential segregation is that it primarily restricts access to important resources for certain groups, leading to a cycle of disadvantage that can be difficult to break.