Examining the gentrification phenomenon around science parks in Taiwan from the perspectives of technology industry and social development

Author : TaiShan Hu, Han-Yu Li, En-Wei Hu

Abstract : Taiwan has gradually adopted the knowledge industry as a primary economic development strategy. However, the concentrated development of specific industries may lead to gentrification in surrounding areas. Therefore, this study aims to investigate whether a gentrification trend is emerging in the areas surrounding the Hsinchu Science Park (HSP) and the Southern Taiwan Science Park (SSP). The results show that rising housing prices and air pollution have occurred in the areas surrounding the parks (with higher levels around the HSP and more fluctuating levels around the SSP), but this has also brought numerous job opportunities. Therefore, the displacement or unemployment associated with gentrification has not materialized. These findings should provide a reference for future spatial planning and governance

Keywords : knowledge economy, gentrification, science parks, housing prices, spatial planning, urban development, and environmental impacts.

Conference Name : International Conference on Urban Studies, Equity, and Human Development (ICUSEHD-26)

Conference Place : Fukuoka, Japan

Conference Date : 11th Jun 2026