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Demographic Analysis of Fernwood/Parkwood: A Low Diversity Black Majority Neighborhood in Savannah, Georgia
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Fernwood/Parkwood neighborhood in Savannah, Georgia, is classified as a "Low Diversity" community with a "Black Majority" as of 2022. The neighborhood's population is 85% Black, reflecting a predominantly African American demographic. The median income in 2022 was $53,951, indicating a moderate economic status. This area is notable for its historical significance in Savannah's civil rights movement.
Over the past decade, Fernwood/Parkwood has maintained its "Low Diversity" status with a "Black Majority". In 2013, the Black population was 88%, increasing to 94% in 2020. Since then, there has been a slight trend towards increased diversity, with the Black population decreasing to 85% by 2022. The White population increased from 4% in 2020 to 11% in 2022. Hispanic representation, while small, has been present in the data since 2021.
The neighborhood has experienced significant economic changes correlating with these demographic shifts. Median income increased from $37,480 in 2013 to $53,951 in 2022, a 44% increase. There was a notable decrease in median income to $26,999 in 2014, coinciding with a period of slightly increased Black majority (91%). The highest median income of $62,810 was recorded in 2021, corresponding with the beginning of the slight diversification trend.
Population figures have fluctuated, decreasing from 654 in 2010 to 453 in 2018, but rebounding to 634 by 2022. This recent population growth aligns with the increasing diversity and rising median income.
Fernwood/Parkwood's recent trends towards slight diversification and economic growth reflect broader national patterns of gentrification and urban renewal in historically Black neighborhoods. However, the persistence of a strong Black majority distinguishes it from many urban areas experiencing more rapid demographic changes. The economic improvements since 2014 suggest a neighborhood that is maintaining its cultural identity while experiencing gradual economic uplift.
Compared to national trends, Fernwood/Parkwood's changes are more modest. This could indicate strong community cohesion and potentially deliberate efforts to preserve the neighborhood's cultural character amidst economic improvements.
The recent increase in population and diversity, coupled with rising incomes, may signal the beginning of a more significant transition. If these trends continue, the neighborhood could potentially shift from "Low Diversity" to "Moderate Diversity" in the coming years, while potentially retaining its Black Plurality or Majority status. This evolution warrants continued observation to understand its impact on community dynamics and local economic development.
