The Geography of Upward Mobility in the U.S.

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Chances of reaching the top fifth starting from the bottom fifth by metro area. Green color – more upward mobility, red color – less upward mobility. Source: The Equality of Opportunity Project.

Key facts:
– Only 16 percent of children raised in poor areas become economically successful adults.
– Children who escape to neighborhoods with better schools, less crime, and more jobs by age 12 outperform siblings who were moved when they were older, and the effect is greater when a child moves at age 6 or younger.
– A child growing up in a community with the lowest level of mobility can expect to earn up to 40 percent less during his or her lifetime than one who lives in a high-mobility neighborhood.

Via CityLab