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Demographic Analysis of Brown Springs: A Low Diversity Black Majority Neighborhood
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Brown Springs, a neighborhood in Birmingham, Alabama, is characterized as a Low Diversity community with a strong Black Majority. As of 2022, the neighborhood's population of 861 is 88% Black, with a median income of $31,147. This urban area is situated within Birmingham's civil rights history context.
Over the past decade, Brown Springs has maintained its status as a Low Diversity, Black Majority neighborhood. The Black population has decreased slightly from 94% in 2014 to 88% in 2022. The Hispanic population has grown from nearly non-existent in 2013 to 7% in 2022, indicating the beginnings of a Transitional Community. White and Multiracial populations have remained relatively stable, collectively representing about 5-6% of the population.
The economic trajectory of Brown Springs shows a generally positive trend. From 2013 to 2022, the median income increased from $21,603 to $31,147, a 44% rise. Income fluctuations were observed, with a peak of $31,378 in 2020 followed by a dip to $27,513 in 2021. The neighborhood experienced population growth from 2013 to 2015, peaking at 1,112 residents, followed by a gradual decline to 861 in 2022.
The increasing median income alongside the subtle diversification suggests that the neighborhood may be experiencing gentle gentrification or economic development, potentially attracting a more diverse, albeit still predominantly Black, population.
Brown Springs' demographic and economic trends can be contextualized within broader national patterns. Many historically Black neighborhoods in American cities have experienced similar patterns of gradual diversification and income growth, often tied to urban renewal initiatives. The increase in the Hispanic population mirrors national trends of growing Hispanic communities in various urban areas across the United States. Despite the income growth, the median income of $31,147 in 2022 remains below the national median household income, highlighting persistent economic challenges in predominantly minority neighborhoods.
Brown Springs exemplifies a community in the early stages of transition. While maintaining its character as a predominantly Black neighborhood, it shows signs of gradual diversification and economic improvement. These changes may signal the beginning of broader demographic and economic shifts that could reshape the neighborhood's identity in the coming years. The challenge for Brown Springs will be to navigate these changes while preserving its cultural heritage and ensuring equitable development for all residents.
