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Demographic Analysis of Norwood, Birmingham: A Predominantly Black Neighborhood
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Norwood, a neighborhood in Birmingham, Alabama, is classified as a "Low Diversity" community with a "Black Majority" (81% in 2022). The area has experienced economic fluctuations over the past decade, with a median income of $24,825 in 2022, down from $36,621 in 2019. Norwood is one of Birmingham's first streetcar suburbs developed in the early 20th century, contributing to its architectural character.
Throughout 2013-2022, Norwood has maintained its status as a "Black Majority" community. The percentage of Black residents has remained between 83% and 87%. The White population has grown from 8% in 2013 to 16% in 2022. The Hispanic population has remained between 2-4%. A small "Two or More Races" category (1% in 2022) has emerged. These changes suggest a slow trend towards increased diversity.
The neighborhood's economic trajectory has been volatile. Median income rose from $20,227 in 2013 to $36,621 in 2019, then declined to $18,642 in 2021, before partially recovering to $24,825 in 2022. The population has decreased from 3,194 in 2010 to 2,192 in 2022, a 31% reduction. The period of income growth (2013-2019) coincides with a slight increase in the White population, potentially indicating some level of gentrification.
Birmingham has a history of racial segregation and economic disparity. Norwood's demographic profile, with its strong Black majority, is common in Birmingham, which has a Black majority (about 68% as of 2020). Norwood's recent trends towards slightly increased diversity mirror broader national trends of slowly increasing integration in urban areas.
The economic volatility in Norwood, particularly the sharp decline in 2020-2021, likely reflects the disproportionate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on minority communities across the United States. The partial recovery in 2022 aligns with national economic trends post-pandemic.
Norwood remains a predominantly Black, low-diversity neighborhood. Subtle shifts in its demographic makeup and significant economic fluctuations over the past decade suggest a community in transition. The challenge for Norwood will be to navigate these changes while preserving its historic character and addressing economic vulnerabilities.
