Spacial Networks and Housing: An Analysis of Foreign Born West Africans and Chinese Populations in NYC and LA

The foreign born population US continues to grow at a rapid pace and new foreign born populations are quickly emerging and The fastest growing foreign born population in the US is the African community. The number of African persons that have received LPR status has increased by 148% from 2004 to 2013 and all of the West African countries together are equal to the sixth largest population receiving LPR status. The Asian population is the second fastest growing population and second largest foreign born group receiving LPR status, has experienced an increase of persons obtaining LPR status by 117% from 2004 to 2014. For many native and permanent residents finding suitable and affordable housing in the US can be difficult which may lead people to settle into communities that are more familiar with residents of similar culture and language. This thesis explores the spatial integration and housing experiences of West African and Chinese foreign born populations in New York City and Los Angeles. Spatial integration is measured using three segregation indices: segregation index, isolation index, and exposure index. OLS regression locational attainment models using public use microdata area level data was used to determine where a person may live. Individuals interviews were conducted to understand housing experiences of individuals and to uncover experiences that may not have been represented in the data