Though less obvious than impacts to our environment and economy, sprawl-induced decentralization is shown to rupture a community’s social fabric and lead to urban decline. Poorly planned development alienates individuals who lack access to a car, specifically the elderly, the young, and the poor. Meanwhile, as more people redistribute to newly developed neighborhoods, poor, usually minority, families who cannot afford to move often are left to contend with a declining tax base, fewer employment opportunities, and a failing educational system.

Photo by Leila Goldmark

Key Facts About the Social Impacts of Sprawl:

Sprawl, which creates a car-dependent culture, drives a wedge into cohesive communities, causing physical and emotional isolation, and unhealthy lifestyles. Sprawl:

Is dangerous for pedestrians. Approximately 6,000 pedestrians are killed and 10,000 injured in the U.S. every year. The national fatality rate is dropping, but is growing in sprawling areas.

Is isolating for children and some seniors who cannot drive. “Carless” people must rely on others or become trapped at home. Less than 13% of children nation-wide walk to school; teen suicide rates are higher in sprawling areas than in cities.

Increases time away from family and friends. The average American driver spends 443 hours per year (55 8-hour workdays) behind the wheel.

People want healthy growth that inspires a sense of place and community spirit. To learn more about sprawl’s impact on society, check out our report, Pave It...or Save It? Volume I: The Environmental, Economic, and Social Impacts of Sprawl.