Understanding the Decline in American Mobility
Yoni Appelbaum, a deputy executive editor at The Atlantic and a social and cultural historian, has been sounding the alarm on a significant shift in American society: the decline of geographic mobility. Once a defining characteristic of the American experience, the ability to move freely and chase opportunities has taken a nosedive over the past few decades. In his latest work, Stuck: How the Privileged and the Propertied Broke the Engine of American Opportunity, Appelbaum dives deep into the roots of this crisis and its far-reaching consequences.
A Nation Built on Movement
Appelbaum reminds us that movement has always been woven into the fabric of American identity. From pioneers heading west to families relocating for better jobs, Americans have historically embraced relocation as a path to prosperity. This mindset fostered innovation, encouraged diversity of thought, and cultivated an optimistic outlook on life. People who moved frequently were often more open to new experiences, more adaptable, and more willing to take risks—all traits that fueled the nation’s growth and dynamism.
What Happened to America's Love of Moving?
But times have changed. As Appelbaum highlights in his March 2025 cover story for The Atlantic, Americans are now far less likely to switch houses, neighborhoods, or cities than they were just a few decades ago. This sharp decline in geographic mobility, he argues, represents one of the most consequential social transformations of the past half-century. Instead of embracing movement, many Americans today find themselves "stuck in place," tethered by economic, legal, and political barriers.
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The Roots of the Problem
According to Appelbaum, the decline in mobility didn’t happen by accident. Over the last 50 years, a combination of legal and political hurdles has erected barriers that prevent people from chasing better opportunities. These obstacles include restrictive zoning laws, sky-high housing costs, and bureaucratic red tape. Together, they’ve created a system that favors the privileged and entrenched, leaving behind those who need mobility the most.
This trend isn’t just about housing. It’s about access to jobs, education, and social networks. When people can’t move, they’re cut off from the very resources that could improve their lives. As Appelbaum puts it, “The engine of American opportunity has been broken, and the consequences are everywhere.”
Lessons from History
To understand the current crisis, Appelbaum looks back at America’s past. In the early 20th century, for example, Sears catalogs offered prefabricated homes like the Puritan Colonial, making it easier for families to relocate and build new lives. This era of accessibility and innovation stands in stark contrast to today’s rigid, exclusionary systems. By examining history, Appelbaum shows us how far we’ve strayed from the principles that once made America a land of opportunity.
What Does This Mean for the Future?
The implications of America’s mobility crisis are profound. Without the ability to move, individuals are less likely to pursue better jobs, start businesses, or engage with diverse communities. This stagnation undermines the very foundation of American democracy, which thrives on dynamism and inclusivity.
In a recent interview with NPR’s Steve Inskeep, Appelbaum emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue. “We’ve lost something fundamental to who we are as a nation,” he said. “If we don’t fix it, the consequences will ripple through every aspect of our society.”
A Call to Action
Appelbaum’s work isn’t just about diagnosing the problem—it’s about finding solutions. In Stuck, he outlines a roadmap for breaking down the barriers that keep Americans from moving and thriving. From reforming zoning laws to investing in affordable housing, his proposals aim to restore the mobility that once defined America.
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As Appelbaum sees it, solving the mobility crisis isn’t just about economics—it’s about values. “At its core, this is about fairness, equality, and opportunity,” he says. “It’s about ensuring that everyone has a chance to build a better life, no matter where they were born or where they live today.”
Where Do We Go From Here?
The question remains: Can America reclaim its legacy of movement and opportunity? According to Appelbaum, the answer lies in collective action. By tackling the legal, political, and economic barriers that hold people back, we can create a more inclusive, dynamic society—one where everyone has the freedom to move, grow, and succeed.
So the next time you see an old Sears catalog or drive past a neighborhood that feels out of reach, remember this: the story of American mobility isn’t over yet. With the right changes, we can write a new chapter—one that honors the spirit of movement that made this country great.
