Transit-Induced Gentrification: A Quasi-Experimental Analysis of New U.S. Rapid-Transit Stations Opened 2000–2009

Research has documented Transit-Induced Gentrification (TIG) in some, but not all, U.S. cities/metros. Our study assesses nationwide TIG probability and its correlates based on a quasi-experimental design involving Nonparametric Propensity Score Matching to select control groups. Three rule-based TIG definitions give different TIG probabilities—over one-half, about two-fifths, and around one-half, respectively—among gentrifiable neighborhoods newly served by rapid transit during 2000–2009, but reveal consistent comparisons between rail and BRT. Neighborhood-level socioeconomic characteristics impact more consistently on TIG probability, while other characteristics vary. Findings underscore the sensitivity of TIG likelihood to definitions, highlighting the importance of engaging the disadvantaged in decision-making.