Schelling-type micro-segregation in a Hassidic enclave of Stamford-Hill

Abstract

This study examines how non-economic inter- and intra-group relationships are reflected in residential pattern, uses a mixed methods approach designed to overcome the principal weaknesses of existing data sources for understanding micro residential dynamics. Micro–macro qualitative and quantitative analysis of the infrastructure of residential dynamics offers a holistic understanding of urban spaces organized according to cultural codes. The case study, the Haredi community, is composed of sects, and residential preferences of the Haredi sect members are highly affected by the need to live amongst ‘friends’ – other members of the same sect. Based on the independent residential records at the resolution of a single family and apartment that cover the period of 20 years the study examine residential dynamics in the Hassidic area of Stamford-Hill, reveal and analyze powerful Schelling-like mechanisms of residential segregation at the apartment, building and the near neighbourhood level. Taken together, these mechanisms are candidates for explaining the dynamics of residential segregation in the area during 1995–2015.

Keywords:

• Hassidic
• Stamford-Hill
• segregation
• residential
• London