Bedroom community Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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bedroom community
[หbษdหrum kษหmjuหnษชti ]
Definition
urban planning
A residential area or suburb located near a city where most of the residents commute to work in the city.
Synonyms
commuter town, residential area, suburb.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bedroom community |
Used to refer to a residential area where people primarily live and sleep, but commute to work in another place. This term highlights the limited local employment opportunities.
|
| suburb |
A suburb is a residential area situated on the outskirts of a city. It often suggests a degree of separation from urban life and may include larger homes with yards.
|
| residential area |
Refers broadly to regions within a city or town where people live, generally away from commercial or industrial zones. It's a neutral term.
|
| commuter town |
This term is similar to 'bedroom community' but more formally indicates a town from which a large number of people travel daily to work in a nearby city. Emphasizes the distance traveled.
|
Examples of usage
- People in this bedroom community often take the train to the city for work.
- The town is considered a bedroom community because many of its residents work in the nearby city.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Urban Planning
- Bedford, Massachusetts, is often cited as one of the first bedroom communities, growing in the 1950s as families sought suburban living away from the city's hustle.
- The design of these communities typically features residential neighborhoods with limited businesses, encouraging commuting to urban centers for work.
- The trend of bedroom communities has contributed to urban sprawl, as people move further from cities in search of affordable housing.
Socioeconomic Impact
- Living in a bedroom community often leads to increased traffic during peak hours as residents commute to their jobs in larger cities.
- Residents of these areas may experience a sense of disconnect from urban lifestyles, leading to more community-focused events and gatherings.
- The lifestyle in a bedroom community can offer more space and quieter environments for families, impacting social dynamics and interactions.
Cultural Perspectives
- Many bedroom communities are characterized by a mix of cultures as people from different backgrounds seek similar suburban lifestyles.
- Community events often reflect the local culture and traditions, creating a unique identity despite being geographically disconnected from urban centers.
- The rise of telecommuting has prompted many to reconsider the conventional definition of these communities, as work-from-home becomes more popular.
Environmental Considerations
- The development of bedroom communities can lead to increased car dependency, impacting environmental sustainability.
- Green spaces and parks in these communities are often vital for promoting outdoor activities and enhancing residents' quality of life.
- Planning for bedroom communities increasingly incorporates eco-friendly practices, such as sustainable building designs and public transport options.
Real Estate
- Real estate in bedroom communities often costs less than in urban areas, making them attractive for families and first-time homebuyers.
- Property values can fluctuate based on commuting options and the overall appeal of nearby city amenities.
- The market for homes in these areas is often influenced by local schools, parks, and community services, creating a competitive atmosphere.
Origin of 'bedroom community'
The term 'bedroom community' originated in the early 20th century in the United States. It was used to describe residential areas or suburbs where the majority of the population commuted to work in a nearby city, primarily to sleep, hence the term 'bedroom'. These communities typically lack significant business or industrial centers and are mainly residential in nature.