Article Reflection No. 62 (8/5/2023)

Article: “What’s the Matter With Miami?”

Reflection:

In The New York Times article “What’s the Matter With Miami?”, opinion columnist Paul Krugman argues that the cost of living is the driving factor behind migrations to “Sunbelt” states—in particular, Florida. Such migrations are influenced by multiple factors, such as low taxes on the wealthy and house affordability, as shown in Miami, a city that imposes house construction restrictions which have driven up the costs of homes. This high living costs, Krugman suggests, explains the city’s halted population growth. Especially in comparison to other cities in Florida where retirees are seeking affordable homes, he writes, the population changes in Miami reflect on what brings Americans to and fro certain states. Towards the end of the article, the columnist also touches on climate change, a factor that has encouraged people to seek warmer winters (as those in Florida). Home insurance is also another aspect of migration to consider.

This is a really interesting article because it shows how housing can have a far-reaching impact on the United States. For example, as many seek affordable housing after retirement and migrate to states with lower costs and better healthcare providers nearby, this may also influence a state’s political makeup, possibly impacting elections. Seeing the expensive homes listed in my local area makes me wonder how housing costs shape my city’s demographic makeup.