Why Homelessness Persists in Expensive Cities: The Illusion of Moving to Affordable Environments

In today's world, it is often believed that the homeless population in expensive cities such as New York could easily escape their situation by moving to places with a lower cost of living. However, this assumption overlooks several critical factors that make the transition much more complex. This article delves into the challenges faced by individuals like the author, who spent eight years in New York City's homeless shelter system, highlighting why such a move is not a straightforward solution to homelessness.

Challenges in Finding Employment

One of the most significant challenges is the availability of jobs in cheaper cities. For instance, the author found it difficult to secure employment with a bachelor's degree in Indianapolis, a relatively less expensive major city. Moving to New York City to pursue a master's degree was a strategic decision based on the perceived better job opportunities. However, recommendations to return to Indianapolis are misguided. The majority of job growth in Indianapolis is limited to warehouses, making it a brain-drain city given its numerous high-quality universities. To move back without a job offer would be imprudent, especially for someone who cannot perform physically demanding tasks.

Financial Constraints and Inheritance

Even when financial assistance is available, such as an inheritance, the realities of moving to a cheaper place often pose significant hurdles. The author's inheritance, though substantial relative to his previous income, was less than the median home price in the United States. This amount, along with other financial constraints, made the decision to move an extremely risky one.

Economic and Personal Constraints

The author's experience with the limitations of his inheritance, combined with the need for physical and psychological well-being, illustrates the complexity of the situation. While he received suggestions to move to a rural area, such advice is impractical and potentially harmful. In the case of moving to a rural area, the author shared a relatable example of a friend encountering cringe-inducing advice about killing a rattlesnake with a hoe. Such experiences are not just physical challenges but also psychological barriers that prevent many from moving to such environments.

The author mentioned that his resume often did not make it past AI systems, highlighting the issue of machine bias in job applications. Furthermore, public library resources like Brainfuse were found to be ineffective in providing meaningful support. These examples underscore the systemic issues that make the transition to cheaper cities a daunting task for many individuals.

Conclusion

Homelessness in expensive cities like New York is not easily resolved by simply moving to a place with a lower cost of living. The challenges include limited job availability, financial constraints, and personal limitations. Moving to a cheaper place is not a straightforward solution but rather an extraordinary gamble that may not lead to a better quality of life. It is crucial to understand the complexities involved and address systemic issues that perpetuate homelessness in both expensive and affordable cities.