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Demographic Analysis of Highland Square, Akron: A White Majority Neighborhood with Emerging Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Highland Square in Akron, Ohio, is a White Majority neighborhood with a median income of $48,607 as of 2022. The area has maintained its White Majority status throughout the analyzed period, though with notable shifts in diversity. Highland Square is known for its vibrant arts scene and historic architecture, contributing to its unique character within Akron.
Over the past decade, Highland Square has consistently remained a White Majority neighborhood, with the white population hovering around 68-70% from 2013 to 2022. However, there have been subtle yet significant changes in its racial composition. The neighborhood shows signs of being a Transitional Community, particularly evident in the increase of residents identifying as two or more races, rising from 3% in 2013 to 7% in 2022. While not quite reaching the threshold for High Diversity, the area has shifted towards Moderate Diversity. The Black population, though decreasing slightly from 24% in 2013 to 19% in 2022, remains a significant minority group. The Asian population, while small, has tripled from 1% in 2013 to 3% in 2022, indicating a growing presence of this demographic.
The median income in Highland Square has shown considerable fluctuation and overall growth. From 2013 to 2022, the median income increased from $35,487 to $48,607, a substantial 37% rise. The neighborhood experienced significant year-to-year variations, with notable increases and decreases. After peaking at $58,330 in 2021, there was a sharp 16.7% decrease to $48,607 in 2022, possibly indicating economic challenges or demographic shifts.
As the neighborhood became slightly more diverse, particularly with the growth in the multi-racial and Asian populations, there was a general upward trend in median income. The slight decrease in the Black population percentage coincided with overall income growth, potentially suggesting changes in neighborhood composition or economic opportunities. The recent sharp decline in median income (2021 to 2022) occurred simultaneously with a notable increase in racial diversity, particularly in the multi-racial category, which could indicate a period of transition and adjustment in the neighborhood's socio-economic fabric.
Highland Square's demographic shifts align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban neighborhoods. The growth in the multi-racial population reflects a nationwide trend of more Americans identifying as mixed-race. The neighborhood's economic fluctuations, particularly the recent decline, may be indicative of wider economic challenges faced by mid-sized cities in the Midwest, often referred to as the Rust Belt.
Highland Square exhibits characteristics of a slowly diversifying, economically dynamic neighborhood within Akron. While maintaining its White Majority status, the area is showing signs of increased racial mixing and economic change, potentially positioning it for further transitions in the coming years. These shifts could have significant implications for local businesses, housing markets, and community services, necessitating adaptive strategies from local policymakers and community leaders.
