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Demographic Analysis of Perry North: A White Majority Neighborhood with Emerging Racial Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Perry North, a neighborhood in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is characterized as a White Majority community with Moderate Diversity. As of 2022, the white population comprises 73% of the neighborhood, while other racial groups, notably Black residents at 19%, contribute to its diversity. The neighborhood's median income in 2022 was $58,259, having fluctuated over the past decade. Perry North features Riverview Park, a 251-acre wooded area that provides recreational opportunities for residents.
Over the past decade, Perry North has maintained its White Majority status. In 2013, the neighborhood was close to being classified as a Majority-Minority area, with a white population of 71% and a Black population of 25%. From 2014 onwards, the white population consistently remained above 72%. The Black population has gradually declined from 25% in 2013 to 19% in 2022. The Hispanic population has remained relatively stable at 2-4% throughout the decade. A notable trend is the increase in residents identifying as two or more races, rising from 1% in 2013 to 5% in 2022, suggesting a Transitional Community aspect.
The median income in Perry North has shown considerable fluctuation over the past decade. From 2013 to 2017, there was a significant increase from $52,904 to $63,386, indicating economic growth. However, this trend reversed in subsequent years, with the median income declining to $58,259 by 2022. These economic shifts correlate with demographic changes. The period of increasing median income (2013-2017) coincided with a slight decrease in the Black population and an increase in the white population, potentially indicating some level of gentrification. The subsequent income decline has not reversed this demographic trend, suggesting that other factors may be influencing the racial composition.
Perry North's demographic trends partially reflect broader national patterns of increasing diversity, particularly in urban areas. The growth in multiracial identification aligns with national trends, as the U.S. Census reported a 276% increase in the multiracial population between 2010 and 2020. However, the neighborhood's maintenance of a strong White Majority status contrasts with many urban areas that have seen more rapid diversification. This could be due to Pittsburgh's unique economic and social factors, including its history of industrial decline and subsequent revitalization efforts.
The fluctuations in median income, particularly the decline since 2017, may reflect broader economic challenges faced by mid-sized cities in the Rust Belt. However, Perry North's median income remains above the national median ($69,021 in 2022), indicating relative economic stability despite recent declines.
Perry North presents a picture of a community in slow transition. While maintaining its White Majority status, it shows signs of increasing diversity, particularly in its growing multiracial population. The economic fluctuations over the past decade have likely influenced and been influenced by these demographic shifts, creating a complex interplay between racial composition and economic factors. As the neighborhood continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether it will maintain its current demographic character or transition towards greater diversity in the coming years.
