What term describes the phenomenon where white residents leave neighborhoods as minorities move in?

The term that accurately describes the phenomenon where white residents leave neighborhoods as minorities move in is "white flight." This concept reflects a societal reaction where white populations exit an area in response to the racial or ethnic diversification of that neighborhood. Historically, this movement can stem from various factors, including perceived threats to property values, social cohesion, or cultural differences.

White flight is often associated with broader issues of segregation and systemic inequality, reflecting how societal anxieties around race and identity can influence residential patterns. The spaces that are vacated often experience a range of social and economic transformations tied to these demographic shifts.

In contrast, the other terms include different phenomena: urban renewal refers to the redevelopment of urban areas, which often can lead to displacement; neighborhood revitalization involves efforts to improve and beautify communities, usually focusing on bringing in investment and resources; and gentrification refers to the influx of more affluent residents to a neighborhood, which can sometimes lead to the displacement of existing communities but is not exclusively about the movement away of the original residents. Each term highlights distinct processes affecting urban living and demographics, but "white flight" specifically captures the essence of the initial exodus in reaction to changing racial or ethnic compositions in neighborhoods.