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Demographic Analysis of Central High Neighborhood: Racial Composition and Economic Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Central High neighborhood in Little Rock, Arkansas, is characterized by a predominantly Black population with low diversity. As of 2022, 87% of the population identifies as Black, categorizing the neighborhood as "Racial Majority." The median income of $37,806 in 2022 indicates a lower-middle-income area. The neighborhood is notable for housing Little Rock Central High School, a historic site significant in the desegregation of American public schools during the Civil Rights Movement.
Over the past decade, Central High has maintained its "Racial Majority" status, with the Black population consistently above 80%. The Black population percentage fluctuated slightly, reaching its lowest point of 81% in 2017 and 2019, before rising to 87% in 2022. The White population remained relatively stable between 7-11% throughout the decade. The Hispanic population, while small, showed some growth from 2017 onwards, peaking at 8% in 2018-2019 before declining to 3% in 2022.
The economic landscape of Central High has shown fluctuations over the past decade. Median income rose from $25,188 in 2013 to $37,175 in 2019, a nearly 48% increase. There was a decline to $29,910 in 2020, likely due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Income has since rebounded, reaching $37,806 in 2022, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
The economic changes do not appear to have significantly altered the racial composition of the neighborhood. The stability in racial demographics despite income fluctuations suggests strong community attachment or limited housing mobility. Population trends show variability, with a peak of 2,379 residents in 2013 and a low of 1,673 in 2018. The current population of 2,056 in 2022 indicates a recent uptick.
Compared to national data, Central High's median household income of $34,319 in 2021 was significantly lower than the U.S. average of $70,784 for the same year. This indicates that the neighborhood remains economically disadvantaged compared to national averages. The racial composition of Central High differs notably from national averages. As of 2021, the U.S. population was approximately 76.3% White and 13.4% Black, whereas Central High is 87% Black and 8% White.
The neighborhood's maintenance of its demographic character despite economic fluctuations may reflect broader trends of racial segregation in American cities. Historical patterns of settlement and community ties often persist despite economic changes. Central High's unique history as a landmark in the Civil Rights Movement may contribute to the preservation of its racial character over time.
In conclusion, Central High has experienced some economic improvements over the past decade, while its racial composition has remained relatively stable. This stability in the face of economic changes suggests strong community ties and potentially limited opportunities for residential mobility. The neighborhood's historical significance adds complexity to its current demographic landscape.
