Spatial Patterns and Local Variation of Socioeconomic Residential Segregation Trends in Mexico City

Landy Sanchez, El Colegio de México

Research on Latin American cities suggests that historical urban growth patterns may contribute to lessen socio-economic residential segregation bellow levels theories would predict given region’s income inequality. However, there are few studies that examine residential segregation levels and their changes over time. More importantly, to fully consider this argument it is necessary to explicitly consider the spatial distribution of socio-economic groups and local variation in residential segregation rates across the metropolitan areas. This paper analyzes changes in the levels and geographical patterns of income residential segregation in Mexico City between 1990 and 2000. It uses spatial segregation indices as well as spatial data analysis techniques to examine: a) the contribution of spatial arrangements to residential segregation levels; b) changes in location and dispersion of socio-economic strata; and c) the extent of local residential diversity and patterns of spatial heterogeneity of the urban landscape.