The role of vertical segregation in urban social processes

Abstract

It is common knowledge that urban neighborhoods have diverse and unequal social profiles, and this makes a difference for the life prospects of their residents. We know much less about social separation and hierarchies within neighborhoods (micro-segregation), that is, in the micro scale of city blocks and apartment buildings. Vertical segregation is a form of micro-segregation embodied by positions of advantage or disadvantage according to the floor of residence. Is vertical segregation exceptional or can we locate it in many different cities? Does it make a difference for the life prospects of urbanites if they live in the advantaged or disadvantaged parts of such micro-segregated spaces?