Uneven equity and sustainability in intentional communities in the USA: A national-level exploratory analysis

This study investigates the socio-spatial patterns of intentional communities (ICs) in the United States, aiming to understand the role(s) of sustainability, equity, and inclusivity. Using a national-level exploratory analysis, this study evaluates the spatial distribution of ICs in the contiguous U.S. and explores the performance of ICs against conventional neighborhoods in sustainability, diversity, and equity indicators. Data are from the Foundation for Intentional Community (FIC) directory and United States Census. Results reveal that ICs demonstrate clustering in specific geographic areas, particularly near cultural and natural features, suggesting connections to counterurbanism movements. While ICs exhibit promising environmental sustainability characteristics, such as reduced reliance on individual automotive transportation and self-reliant living, they tend to have higher housing costs and lower diversity compared to neighboring communities. The study highlights the tension between the positive ecological impact of ICs and their exclusivity, raising critical questions about accessibility, diversity, and economic disparity.