The Role of Affluence Concentration in Educational Homogamy of College Graduates

• In Event: 565 - Regular Session. The Limits of Intergenerational Mobility and the Power of Social Reproduction

Abstract

Educational homogamy has been shown to have increased significantly in the past half-century, particularly for college graduates. But the mechanisms through which this occurs are largely untested at this point. This study examines to role of affluence concentration at the CBSA level in influencing educational homogamy. Using data from the CPS and ACS, results show that indeed there is a significant increase in educational homogamy among college graduates as affluence concentration increases. But these increases are not experienced equally among racial groups. Asians’ odds of homogamy are the most benefited, and multi-racial individuals’ odds are hurt. Black and Hispanic college graduates are unaffected by affluence concentration.

Author

• Gregory J. Mills, University of Connecticut