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Demographic Analysis of Lakewood Heights: A Predominantly Black Atlanta Neighborhood
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Lakewood Heights, a neighborhood in Atlanta, Georgia, is characterized as a "Low Diversity" community with a strong "Racial Majority" of Black residents. As of 2022, the neighborhood has a population of 2,727 and a median income of $42,524. Lakewood Heights has a history as one of Atlanta's early streetcar suburbs, developed in the early 20th century.
Over the past decade, Lakewood Heights has maintained its status as a "Low Diversity" community with a "Black Majority." In 2013, the Black population constituted 84% of the neighborhood, increasing to 95% by 2019. However, a slight shift began in 2020, with the Black population decreasing to 87% by 2022. This change suggests the beginning of a potential "Transitional Community" trend. The most notable change has been the increase in residents identifying as two or more races, rising from 1% in 2013 to 7% in 2022.
The demographic stability of Lakewood Heights over most of the decade correlates with a period of relatively stagnant median incomes. From 2013 to 2019, the median income fluctuated between $21,008 and $31,776. However, there was a significant increase in median income starting in 2020, rising from $31,776 in 2019 to $52,651 in 2021, before decreasing to $42,524 in 2022. This sudden increase in median income coincides with the slight decrease in the Black majority and the increase in multiracial residents.
Population trends show steady growth from 2,064 residents in 2013 to 2,727 in 2022, indicating a gradual increase in the neighborhood's attractiveness or housing capacity.
The demographic composition of Lakewood Heights contrasts with broader trends in Atlanta, which is known for its diversity. While Atlanta has been experiencing increasing diversity and gentrification in many neighborhoods, Lakewood Heights has maintained its predominantly Black character for most of the decade.
The recent economic upturn in Lakewood Heights, particularly the sharp increase in median income from 2020 to 2021, may reflect broader economic trends seen in many urban areas following the initial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This could be due to factors such as changing work patterns, housing market shifts, or targeted economic development initiatives.
The slight increase in diversity and significant income growth in recent years might suggest that Lakewood Heights is beginning to experience changes similar to those seen in other Atlanta neighborhoods. However, it remains to be seen whether this trend will continue or if the neighborhood will maintain its distinct demographic character in the face of broader urban changes.
