Why are there no grocery stores and restaurants in neighborhoods in ABD? Here is the surprising story of American suburbs.

One detail that catches the attention of those moving into a new neighborhood in the U.S. is why there are almost no markets, restaurants, or small businesses among the houses.

At its core are the zoning regulations that have evolved over the years and car‑centric city planning.

Housing and commerce were separated.

In the 1930s, as cars became widespread in the U.S., city planning began to encourage lower‑density, residential‑focused neighborhoods. During that period, the Federal Housing Administration’s (FHA) lending policies also influenced the shaping of new housing projects.

The aim was to reduce vehicle traffic in neighborhoods, allow children to travel to and from school more safely, and separate residential areas from commercial activities.

Since the 1950s, the model was further strengthened by the proliferation of cul‑de‑sacs and expansive suburban developments.

Getting into a car is necessary to reach the market.

In this model, where housing spreads over large parcels, it also made it difficult for small neighborhood businesses to survive. The need for businesses to reach sufficient customers by accessing large parking lots and main roads caused commercial areas to cluster in separate districts.

Over time, zoning rules applied by local governments further separated residential and commercial areas. Thus, today in many American suburbs, traveling by car—even if only a short distance—to reach a market, restaurant, or shopping center has become part of daily life.

Proponents of this system say it creates quieter, low‑traffic neighborhoods, while critics point to increased car dependence and reduced walkability.