If you’re thinking about moving, your gay or lesbian realtor may have suggested you look for a gay neighborhood. These gayborhoods, as they’re sometimes called, do have a number of benefits for LGBT singles and families. Of course, they may not be for everyone, and there may be reasons such as location that make you immediately dismiss the gay neighborhoods of your chosen new home. However, there are reasons why you may want to consider moving to the gayborhood.
Higher Property Values
You may pay more to move to a gay area, but your property is likely to increase in value. A study done on gay neighborhoods concluded that they typically have higher property values on average than comparable communities that are predominately composed of opposite-sex couples. Neighborhoods with a high number of same-sex couples also often have above-average property values when compared to the rest of the city.
A Sense of Security
A number of LGBT people feel more secure living in an area that they know is home to a good number of other LGBT families. This is especially true for people who have been bullied or attacked because of their sexuality. Knowing that you can walk down the streets around your home and not fear being attacked is very reassuring. Of course, even gayborhoods do have crime, but overall, LGBT people may feel more secure here.
The Unique Culture
These neighborhoods also tend to have their own unique cultures and atmospheres. Many have rainbow flags visibly flying. Pride parades and other events may be held annually, and there are often small bars, coffee shops, bookstores, and more located nearby and are run by LGBT people. The overall tone of the neighborhood just feels different thanks to the LGBT community. It usually tends to be more open and inviting, and in addition to gay and lesbian couples and families, you’re likely to see multicultural families in the area, too.
Are They Better?
This is a hotly debated topic. Some people might say gay neighborhoods are all benefit with no detriments, while others would say that each neighborhood has its own pros and cons just like anywhere else. Overall, it’s hard to say if living in a gayborhood is better or worse. It really comes down to what you’re looking for. If you want to be geographically close to a certain area or in a specific school zone, the gay neighborhood of the city may not work. But if you don’t care about such things and don’t have to worry as much about housing costs, you may want to live in one of these areas.