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Top TV Shows About Urban Planning

1/12/2025

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Urban planning is a fascinating lens through which to examine how societies function, grow, and tackle challenges. While television often focuses on personal drama or action, some shows incorporate elements of urban planning—whether through architecture, infrastructure, or community dynamics. Here’s a roundup of top TV shows that touch on urban planning themes:

The Wire (2002–2008)

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  • Where to Stream: HBO Max
  • Why It’s Relevant:
    This critically acclaimed series dives deep into the urban fabric of Baltimore, examining systemic issues like housing, public transportation, zoning, and crime. Season 3, in particular, highlights the struggles of urban redevelopment and the politics behind city planning decisions.
  • Urban Planning Takeaway:
    It showcases the complexity of balancing community needs, political agendas, and economic pressures in revitalizing urban spaces.
  • Buy "The Wire" Series on Amazon

Parks and Recreation (2009–2015)

  • Where to Stream: Peacock
  • Why It’s Relevant:
    This beloved comedy follows Leslie Knope, a passionate public servant in the Parks Department of the fictional Pawnee, Indiana. Episodes often explore city planning topics like land use, green spaces, and public works projects—all while serving up plenty of humor.
  • Urban Planning Takeaway:
    It demonstrates how urban planning intersects with bureaucracy, local politics, and public opinion, offering insight into real-world challenges faced by planners.
  • Buy "Parks and Recreation" Series on Amazon

Grand Designs (1999–present)

  • Where to Stream: Amazon Prime Video
  • Why It’s Relevant:
    This show focuses on ambitious architectural projects, often emphasizing sustainable building practices and unique design approaches. While it’s not strictly about urban planning, it offers inspiration for housing solutions and thoughtful land use.
  • Urban Planning Takeaway:
    It underscores the importance of innovation in design and architecture when creating livable urban environments.
  • Buy "Grand Designs" Series on Amazon
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How I Met Your Mother (2005–2014)

  • Where to Stream: Hulu
  • Why It’s Relevant:
    While a sitcom at heart, HIMYM frequently showcases the redevelopment of New York City, particularly through Ted Mosby’s career as an architect. Themes like gentrification and balancing old vs. new urban elements subtly weave into the narrative.
  • Urban Planning Takeaway:
    It offers a lighthearted look at how individual professions contribute to the city’s evolving skyline and character.
  • Buy "How I Met Your Mother" Series on Amazon

Portlandia (2011–2018)

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  • Where to Stream: Netflix
  • Why It’s Relevant:
    This sketch comedy pokes fun at urban development trends in Portland, Oregon, such as bike lanes, eco-friendly housing, and community planning efforts. It’s a satirical but insightful take on modern urbanism.
  • Urban Planning Takeaway:
    It critiques and celebrates urban planning ideals like walkability, sustainability, and local activism.
  • Buy "Portlandia" Series on Amazon

Show Me a Hero (2015)

  • Where to Stream: HBO Max
  • Why It’s Relevant:
    This miniseries dramatizes the true story of a desegregation housing plan in Yonkers, New York, during the 1980s. It dives into zoning battles, community pushback, and the intersection of politics and planning.
  • Urban Planning Takeaway:
    It’s a powerful case study on how policy decisions shape communities and influence urban landscapes.
  • Buy "Show Me a Hero" Series on Amazon

Broad City (2014–2019)

  • Where to Stream: Hulu
  • Why It’s Relevant:
    Though primarily a comedy about two friends navigating life in New York City, the show humorously highlights the chaos of urban living, including transit issues, zoning quirks, and housing challenges.
  • Urban Planning Takeaway:
    It provides an on-the-ground look at how urban planning decisions affect everyday lives in densely packed cities.
  • Buy "Broad City" Series on Amazon
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Disclosures: article written with assistance of AI. affiliate links used in article.
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  • One Stop Shop of Urban Planning
  • Top Urban Planners Under 40
    • Top under 40 nomination
  • Jobs
    • Find a job
    • Job Posting Request
  • Explore Cities
    • City Insights
    • City Facts
    • Visit These Places
  • Urban Planning Q&A
  • AICP Exam Prep
  • Urban Planning Articles
  • Quizzes
    • What type of urban planner are you?
  • Planning Bingo
  • Contact
  • Planning Concept Report Generator
  • Minimum Parking Calculator