Exurb
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
The term exurb, exurbia or exurbian is a US reference to the residential areas well beyond the suburbs. This term is comparable to the UK term, stockbroker belt.
[edit] Residential focus
The residents of these neighbourhoods are often wealthy commuters or exurbanites. These neighbourhoods may also be referred to as commuter towns or bedroom communities.
Exurbs and suburbs are similar in nature. They are dominated by residential properties (and associated services) rather than commercial or industrial facilities. However, there are slight differences between exurbs and suburbs. Suburbs tend to be developed in an area that is near a primary source of employment (such as a major city), while exurbs are more rural and may be separated from the suburbs by green space.
[edit] Resurgence of the exurb
The first use of the term exurb goes back to the 1950s. The concept was popularised by Auguste C. Spectorsky in his 1955 book, 'The Exurbanites'.
The appeal of the exurbs increased dramatically after 2000 and then dipped until about 2010. In 2019, more millennials were moving to the exurbs, reversing the downward trend of the previous decade.
The attraction of exurbs has several causes, including the need for homes that are affordable, as the cost of city living is beyond reach for some. In addition, the upheaval in the manufacturing sector has resulted in the closure of many large sources of traditional employment. While residents remain in their communities, they may be forced to look for jobs elsewhere in other towns or cities.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
The Home Energy Model and its wrappers
From SAP to HEM, EPC for MEES and FHS assessment wrappers.
Future Homes Standard Essentials launched
Future Homes Hub launches new campaign to help the homebuilding sector prepare for the implementation of new building standards.
Building Safety recap February, 2026
Our regular run-down of key building safety related events of the month.
Planning reform: draft NPPF and industry responses.
Last chance to comment on proposed changes to the NPPF.
A Regency palace of colour and sensation. Book review.
Delayed, derailed and devalued
How the UK’s planning crisis is undermining British manufacturing.
How much does it cost to build a house?
A brief run down of key considerations from a London based practice.
The need for a National construction careers campaign
Highlighted by CIOB to cut unemployment, reduce skills gap and deliver on housing and infrastructure ambitions.
AI-Driven automation; reducing time, enhancing compliance
Sustainability; not just compliance but rethinking design, material selection, and the supply chains to support them.
Climate Resilience and Adaptation In the Built Environment
New CIOB Technical Information Sheet by Colin Booth, Professor of Smart and Sustainable Infrastructure.
Turning Enquiries into Profitable Construction Projects
Founder of Develop Coaching and author of Building Your Future; Greg Wilkes shares his insights.
IHBC Signpost: Poetry from concrete
Scotland’s fascinating historic concrete and brutalist architecture with the Engine Shed.
Demonstrating that apprenticeships work for business, people and Scotland’s economy.
Scottish parents prioritise construction and apprenticeships
CIOB data released for Scottish Apprenticeship Week shows construction as top potential career path.
From a Green to a White Paper and the proposal of a General Safety Requirement for construction products.
Creativity, conservation and craft at Barley Studio. Book review.
The challenge as PFI agreements come to an end
How construction deals with inherited assets built under long-term contracts.
Skills plan for engineering and building services
Comprehensive industry report highlights persistent skills challenges across the sector.
Choosing the right design team for a D&B Contract
An architect explains the nature and needs of working within this common procurement route.
Statement from the Interim Chief Construction Advisor
Thouria Istephan; Architect and inquiry panel member outlines ongoing work, priorities and next steps.