The spike in gas prices could be re-shaping the American lifestyle for many people, particularly baby boomers and millennials, people born between late 1970s and mid-1990s. Urban living may become the new trend due to the $4-a-gallon gasoline, according to The Wall Street Journal. People are leaving their nests in traditional suburbs and moving to density-rich urban areas because of the long and, now expensive, commutes to their jobs. With transportation being a significant household expense, the second largest after housing, suburban families are deeming it essential to move closer to their jobs. What kind of challenge does this potential new lifestyle pose for cities? According to the article, cities will need to invest in public transportation systems, and develop incentives for developers to provide for the urban housing demand. To read more information about this new trend click here.

—Angie Kandil, for Unique Homes