The rise of secondary Chinatowns: Differences of Chinese immigrants in Manhattan Chinatown, Sunset Park, and Flushing

Between 1970s and 1990s, New York City experienced dramatic changes in terms of ethnic composition. Chinese immigrants are moving out of historical settlement areas and creating changes in both the initial settlement area of Manhattan and the new destination in Flushing and Brooklyn. The aims of this study were to examine and analyze the spatial distribution and socioeconomic variations of Chinese immigrants in Manhattan Chinatown, Sunset Park, and Flushing. This research was done by using census data and photos to explore the differences of Chinese immigrants in the three areas. The findings suggest significant socioeconomic difference in these three areas. The results demonstrated that Chinese populations and ethnic businesses in Manhattan Chinatown are declining, whereas Chinese population and ethnic businesses in Sunset Park and Flushing are increasing. Education attainment and median household income variables validated the point that majority immigrants that arrived after the year 2000 are well-educated and earning higher income.