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Demographic Analysis of Flatbush: A Predominantly Black Neighborhood in Transition
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Flatbush, a neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York, exhibits characteristics of a Black Majority community with moderate diversity. As of 2022, the area has a population of 73,028 with a median income of $60,327. Flatbush is known for its Caribbean-American community and the Kings Theatre, a restored movie palace now serving as a performing arts center.
Over the past decade, Flatbush has maintained its status as a Black Majority community, but has shown signs of transitioning towards increased diversity. In 2013, the Black population constituted 80% of the neighborhood, defining it as a Low Diversity area. By 2022, this percentage decreased to 72%, indicating a gradual shift towards Moderate Diversity. The Hispanic population has remained stable at around 11-12% throughout the decade. The White population has increased from 4% in 2013 to 8% in 2022. The Asian population has grown slightly from 2% to 3% over this period.
The percentage of residents identifying as two or more races has increased from 1% to 4%, indicating a trend towards a more mixed-race community. This change, along with the increases in White and Asian populations, suggests that Flatbush is becoming a Transitional Community, moving towards greater diversity.
The demographic shifts in Flatbush correlate with economic changes. The median income has risen from $45,726 in 2013 to $60,327 in 2022, an increase of about 32%. This rise in income coincides with the gradual increase in White and Asian populations and the growth of the multi-racial category, suggesting a link to gentrification processes. The population has grown from 68,392 in 2013 to 73,028 in 2022, a 6.8% increase. This growth, coupled with rising incomes, indicates that Flatbush is becoming increasingly attractive to new residents.
The changes observed in Flatbush reflect broader trends seen in many urban areas across the United States, particularly in large cities like New York. The gradual diversification of traditionally Black-majority neighborhoods is a common pattern in many metropolitan areas, often associated with gentrification processes. The increase in median income in Flatbush (32% over a decade) outpaces the national average income growth rate, which has been closer to 10-15% over similar periods. This suggests that Flatbush is experiencing more rapid economic changes than many other parts of the country.
The growth in the multi-racial population category in Flatbush aligns with national trends, as the U.S. Census has reported a significant increase in people identifying as multi-racial across the country in recent years. In conclusion, while Flatbush remains a Black Majority community, it is showing signs of transitioning towards greater diversity and experiencing significant economic growth. These changes present opportunities and challenges for long-time residents and newcomers alike, as the neighborhood navigates the dynamics of urban change and community development.
