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Demographic Analysis of Arledge: A Black Majority Neighborhood Experiencing Racial Shifts
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Arledge neighborhood in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, exhibits a Black Majority demographic profile as of 2022. The population is 65% Black, with recent increases in Hispanic and multiracial residents. The median income in 2022 was $14,543, indicating significant economic challenges. Arledge is characterized by a small population size and low population density, suggesting a rural or semi-rural setting within Hattiesburg.
Arledge has undergone substantial demographic changes over the past decade. From 2013 to 2020, it maintained a Low Diversity classification with over 75% Black residents. In 2021, it transitioned to a Transitional Community status. The Black population decreased from 91% in 2020 to 62% in 2021 and 65% in 2022. Concurrently, Hispanic residents increased to 11% in 2021 and 12% in 2022, while those identifying as two or more races rose to 23% in 2021 and 19% in 2022.
The neighborhood's median income has remained consistently low, ranging from $14,543 to $17,419 between 2013 and 2022. The lowest median income was recorded in 2022, coinciding with increased diversity. Arledge's population decreased from 272 in 2013 to 161 in 2022, suggesting ongoing economic challenges affecting migration patterns.
The trends in Arledge reflect broader patterns observed in many rural and small-town communities across the United States. The increasing diversity aligns with national demographic trends, particularly the growth in Hispanic and multiracial populations. The persistent low incomes and population decline are characteristic of economically challenged rural areas, especially in the Southern United States.
The extremely low population density indicates Arledge may face challenges common to rural communities, such as limited economic opportunities, aging infrastructure, and difficulty attracting or retaining younger residents.
Arledge represents a small, historically Black community experiencing significant demographic changes while confronting persistent economic challenges. The transition towards greater diversity may introduce new cultural dynamics to the area. However, the continued low incomes and population decline suggest that underlying economic issues remain a critical concern for the community's future vitality and development.
