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Demographic Analysis of Gresham, Chicago: A Predominantly Black Neighborhood
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Gresham, a neighborhood in Chicago, Illinois, exhibits low diversity with a 93% Black majority as of 2022. The community has economic challenges, with a median income of $44,304 in 2022, below the national average. Gresham has historical importance in Chicago's African American community, housing many working-class families since the mid-20th century.
Over the past decade, Gresham has maintained its status as a low diversity neighborhood, dominated by a Black majority. The percentage of Black residents decreased slightly from 97% in 2013 to 93% in 2022. The Hispanic population increased from 0% in 2013 to 3% in 2022, suggesting early stages of becoming a transitional community.
The median income in Gresham increased from $30,540 in 2013 to $44,304 in 2022, representing 45% growth over the decade. This economic improvement correlates with the slight diversification of the neighborhood. Despite this growth, the median income remains below national averages, indicating persistent economic challenges. The population declined from 50,185 in 2013 to 47,022 in 2022.
Gresham's demographic makeup contrasts with the overall diversity of Chicago, known for its multicultural neighborhoods. While many parts of Chicago experienced rapid gentrification and demographic shifts, Gresham remained relatively stable in its racial composition. The economic growth in Gresham has not kept pace with the broader economic recovery seen in many urban areas across the United States following the 2008 recession.
The slight increase in Hispanic residents mirrors broader national trends of growing Hispanic populations in urban areas, though at a much slower rate in Gresham compared to many other neighborhoods across the country. Gresham shows signs of incremental change towards greater diversity and economic improvement, but remains a predominantly Black, low-income neighborhood. The slow pace of change suggests that targeted economic development initiatives and community programs may be necessary to accelerate positive trends and address persistent socio-economic challenges in the area.
