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Demographic Analysis of Laurelton: A Predominantly Black Neighborhood in Queens, New York
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Laurelton, a neighborhood in Queens, New York, exhibits a clear racial majority, with the Black population constituting 87% of residents in 2022. This low-diversity community has maintained a consistent demographic profile over the past decade. Economically, Laurelton has a median income of $95,429 in 2022, which is above the national average. Laurelton is characterized by tree-lined streets and well-maintained single-family homes, contributing to its reputation as a middle-class suburban enclave within New York City.
Throughout the analyzed period (2013-2022), Laurelton has consistently maintained its status as a Black majority neighborhood. The Black population has remained stable, decreasing slightly from 90% in 2013 to 87% in 2022. This decrease has not been sufficient to change the neighborhood's demographic categorization. The Hispanic population has grown from 5% in 2013 to 6% in 2022, and the Asian population has increased from virtually none to 2% over the same period. The White population has remained consistently low at around 1-2%.
Laurelton has experienced steady economic growth over the past decade. The median income has risen from $89,175 in 2013 to $95,429 in 2022, representing a 7% increase. This growth outpaces inflation and suggests an improving economic situation for residents. The population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between about 26,000 and 29,000 residents. This stability, combined with rising incomes, could indicate that long-term residents are experiencing economic improvements rather than being displaced by gentrification.
The consistency in both racial composition and population size, coupled with rising incomes, suggests that Laurelton has maintained its character as a predominantly Black, middle-class neighborhood while experiencing modest economic gains.
Laurelton's demographic stability contrasts with broader trends in many urban areas, where rapid gentrification often leads to significant demographic shifts. Its ability to maintain a strong Black majority while seeing economic improvements is notable, especially in the context of New York City's often rapidly changing neighborhoods.
The median income in Laurelton ($95,429 in 2022) is higher than the national median household income (which was about $70,784 in 2021). This positions Laurelton as a relatively affluent neighborhood, especially considering its status as a majority-minority area.
The neighborhood's racial composition stands out when compared to Queens as a whole, which is known for its high diversity. While Queens is often celebrated as one of the most diverse urban areas in the United States, Laurelton maintains a distinct identity as a predominantly Black community within this diverse borough.
Laurelton presents a case of a stable, predominantly Black neighborhood that has experienced steady economic growth without significant demographic upheaval. This stability in the face of broader urban changes makes Laurelton an example of community resilience and economic progress within its racial demographic.
