Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography Practice Exam

What commonly drives the process of gentrification?

1. Mass migration to rural areas

2. Increased investment in urban development by middle-class families

3. Expansion of manufacturing jobs in suburban areas

4. Government policies favoring low-income housing

The correct answer is: Increased investment in urban development by middle-class families

The process of gentrification is primarily driven by increased investment in urban development by middle-class families. This phenomenon typically occurs when wealthier individuals move into a previously lower-income neighborhood, seeking more affordable housing, unique cultural experiences, or proximity to urban amenities. As these middle-class families invest in homes, the demand for housing in these areas rises, leading to renovations and increased property values. This influx often results in the displacement of long-time residents, who may be unable to afford the rising rents or property taxes that accompany neighborhood improvements. The investment by these families can also attract new businesses, further altering the social and economic landscape of the area. Gentrification, therefore, reflects broader societal trends regarding urban living, class dynamics, and economic investment in cities. In contrast, mass migration to rural areas, the expansion of manufacturing jobs in suburban areas, and government policies favoring low-income housing do not typically contribute to gentrification. Instead, these factors might lead to demographic shifts away from urban centers or help maintain affordable housing rather than drive the investment and shifts characteristic of gentrification.