Studentification: the effect on the surrounding community

Written by Tyler Campbell |Graphics by Jiselle Santos

Studentification is a process in which particular neighborhoods experience a significant influx of student residents. Studentification, like gentrification, is often condemned by established residents. Of course, education is great; therefore, universities are great. However, the members of a community are far more than the student population alone. Some people intentionally move to these college towns because they enjoy the environment. Others choose to remain in the community years after they have graduated. These individuals seem to prefer to live in these areas. What positive aspects encourage a person to live in a college town? What are the negatives?

Universities have several effects on the surrounding communities. Some can be negative or positive depending on personal preference, while others are not as debatable. These effects can be physical, social, cultural, or economical.

Positive effects

During the semester, many businesses such as coffee shops, restaurants, liquor stores, and local markets gain revenue due to the student population. Depending on the city, this can also positively affect taxi and uber sales. I am sure that these businesses welcome students with open arms. There are also students that do volunteer work and internships. This can be very beneficial to businesses and volunteer organizations that can use the extra pair of hands. Additionally, students can have a positive social impact on the communities. Students can bring fresh and positive energy to an area and bring dull neighborhoods back to life. A good example of this is sports teams. A great sports team can inspire unity in the community, as well as provide entertainment. Speaking of entertainment, students often have art shows, theater, and musical performances that can be an excellent form of entertainment for residents. Many times, these events are free or relatively cheap. Finally, it is not uncommon for areas surrounding universities to get upgrades to the physical environment. This can include new buildings, streets, and homes.

Negative effects

Unfortunately, there are some adverse effects on neighborhoods that surround universities. For starters, the upgrades to the physical environment can result in increased prices for non-students to live in the area as well as decreased levels of owner-occupation. Many residents will likely become frustrated with increased traffic and limited parking. Neighborhoods that were once quiet may become noisy and busy. This is due to the aforementioned fresh energy that will be brought to the city. There will likely be more competition for local jobs, which will negatively impact non-student residents. Established residents may be displaced with the student population. This population is full of young people with similar interests and lifestyles. This will lead to particular types of retail and service infrastructure being built in abundance.

Closing thoughts

Studentification seems to be a double-edged sword to the surrounding neighborhoods. However, if the established residents can adjust, they may grow to appreciate university life. If given adequate time, the community and university will likely intertwine and grow to support each other. Unfortunately, before that happens, there may need to be some adjustments to how these transitions are handled.