New Research Analyzes HOPE VI Program and the Impact of Neighborhood Revitalization
By: Steven Molinari, Policy Analyst
February 5, 2026 — New research conducted by Opportunity Insights, a Harvard University based research and policy organization, found that ongoing neighborhood revitalization efforts such as HUD’s Choice Neighborhoods and Residential Assistance Demonstration programs could increase economic mobility.
The study addresses the question, “can we bring opportunity to families by revitalizing the neighborhoods they live in?” In addressing this question, researchers of the study provide several findings using insights and analysis of the HOPE VI Program.
Key findings include:
- Adults did not gain economically from HOPE VI revitalization;
- Children who grow up in revitalized neighborhoods earn more as adults;
- Earnings gains exceed costs of revitalization;
- Gains for children were driven by stronger social connections with higher-income neighborhoods; and
- Economic mobility can be increased by better connecting low-opportunity areas.
According to the study, individuals who were born and grew up in revitalized public housing units earn about 50% more as adults compared to individuals of the same background in non-revitalized public housing units.
The full study and supporting information can be found here.