Provincial gentrification in the Global North – A literature review

This study aims to explore the main characteristics of gentrification in provincial cities in the Global North. The paper builds on recent findings of gentrification research in provincial cities focusing on the demand side. For the sake of the study a literature review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. The paper concludes that gentrification in provincial cities is somewhat delayed, less dynamic and often incomplete compared to gentrification in metropolises. While in metropolises, yuppies are primarily attracted by well-paid jobs and entertainment in the inner city, provincial gentrifiers tend to utilize the practical benefits of inner-city living (e.g., quality of housing, safety, and accessibility). Among the various types of gentrification, marginal gentrification seems to be more widespread in provincial cities. In smaller provincial cities with universities, student gentrification tends to be common, whereas tourism gentrification often dominates in cities with valuable historical buildings. Favorable conditions for new-build and green gentrification in smaller provincial cities are sustained by a relatively good supply of under-utilized sites, high-quality greenery and other natural elements. Future research should devote more attention not only to the different factors of gentrification in global and provincial cities, but also to developing conceptual explanations in these different contexts. •The context of gentrification differs considerably between provincial cities and metropolises which is often underestimated;•Gentrification in provincial cities tends to be somewhat weaker and delayed compared to that in metropolises;•Provincial gentrifiers place more emphasis on the practical benefits of inner-city living over lifestyle motivations;•The differences can be partly explained by social variations among gentrifiers, which result from capital accumulation;•Future research should pay more attention to conceptual explanations of gentrification in provincial cities;