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Demographic Analysis of Behrman: A Low Diversity, Predominantly Black Neighborhood in New Orleans
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Behrman, a neighborhood in New Orleans, Louisiana, exhibits a low diversity demographic profile with a racial majority of Black residents, comprising 84% of the population as of 2022. The area has experienced economic fluctuations over the past decade, with a recent increase in median income. Behrman has maintained a predominantly Black community despite broader gentrification trends seen in other parts of New Orleans post-Hurricane Katrina.
Throughout the analyzed period (2013-2022), Behrman has consistently maintained its status as a low diversity neighborhood with a Black majority. The percentage of Black residents has remained relatively stable, ranging from 78% to 86%. There have been minor fluctuations in other racial groups, but none significant enough to shift the neighborhood's overall demographic categorization.
The White population increased from 7% in 2013 to 12% in 2018-2019, before declining back to 7% in 2022. This brief increase could suggest a short-lived attempt at diversification, possibly linked to post-Katrina recovery efforts or temporary economic opportunities. The Hispanic population has remained relatively constant, hovering around 5-7%, indicating a small but stable presence in the community.
The median income in Behrman has shown significant volatility over the past decade. From 2013 to 2019, there was a downward trend, with median income dropping from $32,951 to $21,642. This decline coincided with a decrease in population from 9,444 to 7,352, suggesting economic pressures may have forced some residents to leave the area.
From 2020 to 2022, there was a turnaround. Median income increased to $34,042 in 2022, surpassing the 2013 levels. This economic revival occurred despite a continued slight decline in population, indicating that those who remained in the neighborhood experienced improved economic conditions.
The correlation between demographic and economic trends is not straightforward. The neighborhood maintained its Black majority status throughout both economic downturns and upswings, suggesting a strong community resilience and attachment to place.
The economic volatility experienced in Behrman reflects broader challenges faced by many predominantly Black neighborhoods in urban areas across the United States. The recent economic improvement is notable and may be part of a larger trend of reinvestment in historically underserved communities.
The persistence of a strong Black majority in Behrman contrasts with trends seen in some other urban areas, where gentrification has led to significant demographic shifts. This stability might be attributed to strong community ties, cultural significance, or targeted local policies aimed at preserving neighborhood character.
The recent economic upturn, if sustained, could potentially lead to increased diversity in the future, as improved economic conditions might attract new residents. However, care should be taken to ensure that any such changes benefit long-term residents and preserve the neighborhood's cultural heritage.
Behrman presents a case of demographic stability amid economic fluctuation. The neighborhood's ability to maintain its character through economic challenges, followed by recent improvements in median income, suggests a resilient community with potential for sustainable growth while preserving its cultural identity.
