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Demographic Analysis of Arlington-West End: A Predominantly Black Neighborhood in Transition
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Arlington-West End in Birmingham, Alabama, is classified as a "Low Diversity" neighborhood with a Black majority of 83% as of 2022. The area has experienced a population decline from 6,191 residents in 2010 to 3,662 in 2022. The median income has increased from $17,686 in 2013 to $22,647 in 2022. This neighborhood holds historical significance in Birmingham's civil rights movement.
Arlington-West End has maintained its "Low Diversity" status throughout the analyzed period, with the Black population consistently representing over 75% of residents. There are indications of a gradual transition towards increased diversity. The Black majority has decreased from 98% in 2013 to 83% in 2022. The White population has grown from 1% to 9%, and the Hispanic population has increased from 0% to 6% during this period. A small multi-racial population of 2% emerged by 2022.
The neighborhood has experienced a gradual increase in median income, rising from $17,686 in 2013 to a peak of $25,749 in 2020, before slightly declining to $22,647 in 2022. This overall positive trend in income correlates with the increasing diversity of the neighborhood. The introduction of new racial groups coincides with periods of income growth. The peak in median income (2019-2020) aligns with the period of most rapid diversification.
The demographic changes in Arlington-West End reflect broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban areas, albeit at a slower pace. The persistent Black majority in this neighborhood is typical of many historically African American communities in the South, particularly those with strong ties to civil rights history.
The income growth, while positive, still places Arlington-West End well below the national median household income (which was around $70,784 in 2021). This disparity highlights the ongoing economic challenges faced by many predominantly Black neighborhoods in the United States.
The population decline in Arlington-West End is more severe than national averages but aligns with trends seen in many inner-city neighborhoods across the country, especially those that have historically been underserved or affected by urban decay.
In conclusion, Arlington-West End remains a "Low Diversity" neighborhood with a strong Black majority. Subtle demographic shifts and modest economic improvements suggest a community in slow transition. These changes, if sustained, could lead to increased diversity and potentially further economic growth in the coming years, though significant challenges remain in bridging the gap with national economic averages.
