Routledge Rural Migrants in Urban China - Academic Book

Explore the complex social landscape of modern China with this academic study from the Routledge Contemporary China Series. As millions of people move from the countryside to major cities, a unique form of urban life has emerged through villages in the city. This book examines these informal enclaves and the transient urbanism they represent. Unlike typical squatter settlements found in other developing nations, these areas are owner-occupied settlements. They are developed semi-formally by former farmers who have become small-scale developers and landlords. These individuals provide high-density housing to rural migrants, creating a distinct urban structure that faces constant pressure from redevelopment efforts aimed at cleaning up the urban image of China's economic vision. This text provides an essential look at the tension between rapid economic growth and the informal housing systems that support the migrant workforce. It is a necessary resource for students, researchers, and anyone interested in the sociology and urban planning of contemporary China.