As housing markets have exploded over the last several years, the pricey luxury condos springing up in many neighborhoods are seen as a sure sign that the city is on its way to a fully revitalized future. However, great as ultra-modern condos may be for developers and landlords, they don’t exactly fit the requirements of aspiring young artists, chefs, actors, and entrepreneurs (much less students, teachers, and cops) who can bring a great deal of talent and ambition to the city. What’s worse, despite modest incomes, these people are often seen in the same light as the high-income lawyers, lobbyists and financiers who are more likely to isolate themselves with their wealth if they even choose to remain in the city at all after starting a family.

Coinciding with the housing boom, the market for apartments has tightened considerably, and rents have risen in most parts of the city. A shortage of moderately priced housing could stymie D.C.’s redevelopment efforts if the very people the city is trying to attract – people who will invest and plant roots in the city – can’t find a place to live. Could it be that all this development, touted by D.C. officials as an indicator of “progress,” is actually just pushing out to the suburbs those talented young people who want to contribute their talents (and tax dollars) to D.C.?

Photo by ohad*