We analyzed Philly street scenes and identified signs of gentrification using machine learning trained on longtime residents’ observations

Researchers are using machine learning models to identify gentrification in imagery. Community insights help keep the models on track

By: Maya Mueller, Drexel University and Isaac Quaye, Temple University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: March 30, 2026

Words: 1,159

Last Updated: 4 months ago

By Maya Mueller, Drexel University and Isaac Quaye, Temple University

What does gentrification in Philadelphia look like?

“High-rise, modern apartment buildings.”

“(A) modern look that’s so out of place with our traditional row homes that have been here for a hundred years.”

“Six- to seven-floor high-rises with garages in the basement. They charge an extra $200 to park.”

“Gray, industrial looking.”

“The houses are ugly as heck. No architectural style. They’re probably two-bedroom, some probably one. …

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