Demographic Analysis of Old Cherry: A Predominantly Black Neighborhood in Winston-Salem
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
DATA SOURCE
Old Cherry, a neighborhood in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is classified as a "Black Majority" community with 74% of its population identifying as Black in 2022. This demographic composition has remained stable over the past decade. The neighborhood's median income was $23,954 in 2022, which is below the national median household income. Old Cherry has historical significance in Winston-Salem's African American community, with roots dating back to the early 20th century.
Over the past decade, Old Cherry has consistently maintained its "Black Majority" status. The percentage of Black residents has fluctuated between 72% and 85%. The Hispanic population has varied from 10% to 21%, while the White population has increased slightly from 0% in 2015-2016 to 6% in 2022. These changes suggest a gradual trend towards increased diversity, albeit on a small scale.
The median income in Old Cherry has shown an overall upward trend, increasing from $20,063 in 2013 to $23,954 in 2022, representing a 19% increase over nine years. However, this growth has not been consistent, with some years showing declines. Periods of highest racial homogeneity coincided with lower median income figures, while recent years of slightly increased diversity have seen modest increases in median income.
The population of Old Cherry has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 574 and 726 residents over the decade. This stability, combined with the consistent "Black Majority" status, suggests a strong, established community identity.
While Old Cherry has maintained its "Black Majority" status, many urban areas across the United States have experienced increased diversity over the past decade. The slight increases in Hispanic and White populations in Old Cherry might reflect this broader national trend on a smaller scale.
The median income in Old Cherry remains significantly below both the North Carolina median household income (approximately $57,341 in 2020) and the national median (approximately $67,521 in 2020). This disparity highlights the economic challenges faced by this community and suggests that Old Cherry may be part of a broader pattern of economic inequality often seen in historically Black urban neighborhoods.
In conclusion, Old Cherry has maintained its strong Black majority identity over the past decade, with subtle shifts towards increased diversity and modest economic improvements. These changes, though small, may signal the beginning of a longer-term trend towards greater diversity and economic development in this historically significant neighborhood.
