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Demographic Analysis of Highland Park, Columbia: A Predominantly African American Neighborhood
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Highland Park, a neighborhood in Columbia, South Carolina, exhibits characteristics of a "Low Diversity" community with a "Racial Majority" of Black residents. As of 2022, 90% of the population identifies as Black, with a median income of $38,781. This predominantly African American neighborhood has historical significance within Columbia's urban landscape.
Over the past decade, Highland Park has maintained its status as a "Low Diversity" area with a strong "Black Majority." The Black population percentage increased from 73% in 2013 to 90% in 2022. The White population decreased from 26% in 2013 to 6% in 2022. By 2021-2022, a small "Two or More Races" category (4%) emerged, potentially indicating a slight diversification trend.
The economic trajectory of Highland Park shows an upward trend. Median income increased from $30,314 in 2013 to $38,781 in 2022, representing a 28% growth over the decade. There were fluctuations, with a jump to $38,537 in 2018, followed by a dip and recovery. The population decreased from 1,078 in 2013 to 907 in 2017, before rebounding to 1,135 in 2022.
The strengthening of the Black majority coincided with overall economic improvement, suggesting a possible correlation between community cohesion and economic stability. The population rebound in recent years, coupled with income growth, may indicate an increasing attractiveness of the neighborhood to African American residents.
Highland Park's trends can be contextualized within broader national patterns. Many U.S. cities have experienced shifts in neighborhood racial composition, often due to factors like gentrification or suburban migration. Highland Park's increasing Black majority contrasts with trends in some urban areas that have seen declining African American populations. The neighborhood's 28% income growth over the decade is notable. The maintenance of a strong Black majority and economic growth in Highland Park may reflect broader trends of community resilience and investment in historically African American neighborhoods.
Highland Park presents a case of a stable, predominantly African American community that has experienced modest economic growth while maintaining its cultural identity. The emerging small diverse population segment suggests potential for future changes, which could impact the neighborhood's character and economic trajectory in the coming years.
