Loading Content...
Demographic Analysis of Elmwood: A Predominantly African American Neighborhood in Philadelphia
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Elmwood, a neighborhood in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, exhibits a clear racial majority, with the Black population comprising 84% of residents in 2022. This low diversity community has experienced economic growth over the past decade, with median income rising from $28,602 in 2013 to $36,880 in 2022, despite fluctuations. Elmwood features a mix of Victorian-era homes and modern developments, reflecting its long history and recent changes.
Throughout the analyzed period (2013-2022), Elmwood has consistently maintained its status as a Black Majority neighborhood. The percentage of Black residents increased from 75% in 2013 to 84% in 2022. The neighborhood has experienced subtle shifts in its racial composition, including a decline in the White population from 9% to 3%, an increase in the Asian population from 3% to 7%, and a slight increase in the Hispanic population from 2% to 3%.
The median income in Elmwood has shown an overall positive trend, increasing by about 29% from 2013 to 2022. This growth has not been linear, featuring a sharp increase from 2014 to 2015, a significant drop in 2016, steady growth from 2017 to 2019, and fluctuations in recent years, with a peak in 2021 ($42,021) followed by a decrease in 2022.
These economic shifts correlate with demographic changes. The period of steady income growth (2017-2019) coincides with a slight increase in the Black majority and a decrease in the White population. The increase in the Asian population percentage from 2021 to 2022 occurred alongside a decrease in median income.
Elmwood's demographic composition contrasts with Philadelphia as a whole, which is more diverse. While Philadelphia is often categorized as a Majority-Minority city, Elmwood's strong Black Majority makes it less diverse than the city average. The neighborhood's economic growth, while positive, still places it below Philadelphia's median household income ($52,649 in 2021). However, Elmwood's growth rate outpaces the national average.
The stability of Elmwood's racial composition, maintaining a strong Black Majority over the decade, is notable in an era where many urban neighborhoods are experiencing rapid demographic shifts due to gentrification. This stability might indicate strong community ties and cultural identity within Elmwood.
In conclusion, Elmwood has maintained its status as a Black Majority neighborhood with relatively low diversity, while experiencing subtle demographic shifts and significant economic growth over the past decade. These changes reflect a community that is evolving economically while maintaining its core demographic character.
