Which theory explains the migration of affluent individuals away from city centers leading to increased crime rates?

The phenomenon of affluent individuals migrating away from city centers, often referred to as suburbanization, is accurately captured by the suburbanization theory. This theory posits that as wealthier populations move to suburban areas, urban centers experience a decline in resources, community cohesion, and investment. The reduction in economic activity and social capital in the city can create conditions that may contribute to rising crime rates.

Urban environments often rely on stable, engaged communities to help mitigate crime through social ties and informal social control. As affluent individuals leave for suburban life, often seeking larger living spaces, better schools, and perceived safety, the remaining urban populations may lack the same socioeconomic advantages, potentially exacerbating issues related to poverty and crime.

The concentric circle theory primarily focuses on urban structure and social relationships as cities expand outward from a central point, but it doesn't specifically address the migration patterns of affluent individuals or their relationship with crime rates. Social disorganization theory centers on the breakdown of community structures and norms, while urban ecology theory examines the relationships between urban structures and social behaviors. While these theories contribute valuable insights, they do not specifically highlight the trend of suburbanization and its impact on urban crime as effectively as suburbanization theory does.