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Demographic Analysis of Downtown East, Baton Rouge: A Predominantly Black Neighborhood in Transition
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Downtown East in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, currently exhibits a low diversity demographic profile, with a Black majority of 74% as of 2022. The neighborhood has experienced fluctuations in its economic status over the past decade, with median income dropping from 2013 to 2019 before rebounding in recent years. This area is located near the Mississippi River and holds historical significance in Baton Rouge's development.
Throughout the analyzed period (2013-2022), Downtown East has maintained a Black majority status, with the Black population percentage increasing from 67% in 2013 to 74% in 2022. The White population has declined from 26% in 2013 to 14% in 2022, indicating a shift from moderate diversity to low diversity. The neighborhood has shown signs of becoming a transitional community, with growth in the "Two or More Races" category from 0% in 2017 to 9% in 2022.
The economic trajectory of Downtown East has been volatile. Median income declined from $32,585 in 2013 to $16,460 in 2019, before rebounding to $25,435 in 2022. The period of income decline coincided with an increase in the Black population percentage and a decrease in the White population. The recent income recovery aligns with the growth in multiracial representation and a slight stabilization of the Black majority.
The demographic trends in Downtown East reflect broader national patterns of increasing racial diversity in urban areas, though the neighborhood's strong Black majority distinguishes it from many other transitioning urban neighborhoods. The economic volatility experienced here is more pronounced than national averages, which have generally shown more stable income growth over the same period.
The recent increase in multiracial representation aligns with national trends, as the 2020 U.S. Census reported significant increases in people identifying as multiracial across the country. However, the persistence of a strong Black majority in Downtown East contrasts with many urban areas experiencing more rapid diversification.
Downtown East presents a case of a historically Black neighborhood maintaining its racial character while showing early signs of increased diversity, against a backdrop of significant economic fluctuations. These trends suggest a community in transition, balancing the preservation of its cultural identity with the forces of urban change and economic recovery.
