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Demographic Analysis of Pleasant Ridge, Cincinnati: A Study of Racial Composition and Economic Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Pleasant Ridge, a neighborhood in Cincinnati, Ohio, is currently a White Majority community with moderate diversity. As of 2022, the white population comprises 66% of residents, with Black (22%) and Hispanic (4%) populations being significant minorities. The neighborhood has undergone demographic and economic changes over the past decade. Pleasant Ridge is characterized by its historic charm, featuring tree-lined streets and diverse architectural styles that reflect its history dating back to the mid-19th century.
From 2013 to 2022, Pleasant Ridge has maintained its status as a White Majority community. The Black population has decreased from 28% in 2013 to 22% in 2022, indicating a shift towards a more pronounced White Majority. The Hispanic population grew from 4% in 2013 to 7% in 2019-2020, before returning to 4% in 2022. The Asian population increased from 0% to 2%, and those identifying as two or more races doubled from 2% to 4% between 2013 and 2022, suggesting a slow but steady move towards greater diversity.
The neighborhood has experienced significant economic growth over the past decade. From 2013 to 2022, the median income rose from $55,852 to $65,691, with a peak of $74,106 in 2021, representing a 17.6% increase over the decade. Despite the economic growth, the population decreased from 14,960 in 2013 to 14,133 in 2022, with notable fluctuations in between. This could suggest gentrification processes, where rising property values may be pricing out some residents.
The increase in median income coincides with the slight decrease in the Black population and increases in Asian and multiracial populations, potentially indicating socioeconomic disparities along racial lines.
These trends in Pleasant Ridge align with broader national patterns. Many suburban areas across the U.S. have experienced increasing racial diversity over the past decade, although Pleasant Ridge's changes have been relatively modest. The significant increase in median income reflects a national trend of economic recovery and growth following the 2008 recession, particularly in urban and suburban areas. The combination of rising incomes, slight population decrease, and shifts in racial composition mirror patterns of gentrification seen in many urban neighborhoods across the country.
Pleasant Ridge has maintained its White Majority status while showing signs of slow diversification and significant economic growth. These changes suggest a neighborhood in transition, potentially moving towards greater diversity while experiencing economic pressures that may be reshaping its community fabric. The challenge for Pleasant Ridge moving forward will be to manage this growth and change in a way that preserves its historic character while fostering inclusivity and affordability for a diverse population.
