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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Central Highland Park in Topeka, Kansas, currently exhibits characteristics of a Moderate Diversity community, with representation from White (37%), Hispanic (37%), and Black (19%) populations as of 2022. The neighborhood has transitioned from a White Plurality to its current more diverse composition over the past decade. The median income was $47,277 in 2022, reflecting economic fluctuations correlating with demographic changes. Central Highland Park is notable for its historic residential architecture and proximity to Washburn University.
In 2013, Central Highland Park had a White Plurality, with whites comprising 45% of the population. The neighborhood transitioned towards Moderate Diversity over the decade. The Hispanic population increased from 29% in 2013 to 37% in 2022, while the White population decreased from 45% to 37%. The Black population remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 15% and 25% throughout the period.
The median income in Central Highland Park has fluctuated over the past decade. From 2013 to 2019, there was an increase from $33,210 to $52,026. However, since 2019, there has been a decline, with the median income reaching $47,277 in 2022. The period of highest income growth (2013-2019) coincided with the most significant increases in diversity.
The population of Central Highland Park has remained relatively stable over the decade, with minor fluctuations. This stability, combined with increasing diversity, suggests that the neighborhood is experiencing a demographic shift rather than significant population growth or decline.
The demographic changes in Central Highland Park reflect broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban areas. Many U.S. cities have experienced growth in Hispanic populations and a relative decrease in White populations over the past decade. The economic trajectory of Central Highland Park may be more specific to local or regional factors.
The neighborhood's proximity to Washburn University likely contributes to its diversity, as universities often attract a mix of domestic and international students and faculty. This educational influence may also help explain the economic resilience of the area, as education-adjacent communities often have more stable employment opportunities.
Central Highland Park has evolved from a White Plurality community to one of Moderate Diversity over the past decade, with significant growth in its Hispanic population. This demographic shift has been accompanied by economic changes, including a period of income growth followed by recent decline. These trends reflect both national patterns of increasing urban diversity and local factors unique to Topeka and the neighborhood's characteristics.