Living underground in caves and houses built underground worldwide 10s of millions already do this all over the world:

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While precise global figures are unavailable, it is estimated that tens of millions of people live in underground or cave homes, particularly in China. Millions still reside in cave dwellings in the Shaanxi Province of China, though the numbers have decreased over time due to urbanization. Smaller communities also exist in places like North America (around 6,000 people) and Australia, while other settlements have been abandoned. Additionally, unhoused populations in cities like New York and Las Vegas live in subway tunnels and other underground infrastructure.  

Notable Underground Communities

• China:

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A large number of people, estimated to be in the tens of millions, live in yaodong homes, which are carved into the earth or hillsides. These homes provide natural insulation against extreme temperatures. 

Around 6,000 people in North America live in some form of underground architecture, often for environmental reasons. 

Places like Coober Pedy in South Australia have significant underground populations due to the extremely hot surface temperatures. 

Historical and modern communities also exist in places like Mali, Cappadocia (Turkey), and Matera (Italy), though populations may have decreased or shifted over time. 

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Why People Live Underground

• Environmental Benefits:

  Underground homes offer natural insulation, keeping them cool in the summer and warm in the winter, reducing energy costs. 

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• Around the World - Home in the Earth

  It is estimated that China has 40 million people living in underground or cave homes called “yaodongs“. Many of these live in cent...

Home in the Earth

North America:

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Australia:

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Other Regions:

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Historical Practice:

Living in caves and underground structures is an ancient practice, with the Dogon people of Mali once living in caves to escape religious and slave raids. 

Necessity and Lifestyle:

Some individuals and communities live underground out of necessity (like the unhoused in cities) or as a lifestyle choice. 

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