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Demographic Analysis of Power Neighborhood in Wichita: A Black Majority Community in Transition
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Power neighborhood in Wichita, Kansas, exhibits a demographic profile categorized as a Black Majority community. As of 2022, the African American population comprises 61% of the neighborhood. The median income has increased to $32,861 over the past decade. Power has historical significance in Wichita's African American community, with roots dating back to the early 20th century when it was one of the few areas where Black residents could own property due to segregation practices.
Power has maintained its status as a Black Majority neighborhood over the past decade. The Black population constituted 63% of the neighborhood in 2013, peaked at 75% in 2018, and declined to 61% in 2022. This trend indicates a gradual transition towards increased diversity. The Hispanic population has grown from 17% in 2013 to 20% in 2022, while the percentage of residents identifying as two or more races has increased from 4% to 12% over the same period. These changes suggest Power may be evolving towards a Moderate Diversity classification, although it remains a Black Majority neighborhood.
The median income in Power has experienced substantial growth, increasing from $20,878 in 2013 to $32,861 in 2022, representing a 57% increase. This economic improvement correlates with the gradual diversification of the neighborhood. The population of Power has remained relatively stable during this period, fluctuating between approximately 2,000 to 2,700 residents. This suggests that the economic improvements and demographic shifts are not due to a large influx of new residents but rather changes within the existing community or gradual replacement of some residents with others of different backgrounds.
The trends observed in Power reflect broader national patterns of increasing diversity in urban neighborhoods. Many historically Black neighborhoods across the United States have experienced similar gradual diversification, often accompanied by economic changes. Power's retention of a strong Black majority is notable, as some comparable neighborhoods in other cities have undergone more dramatic demographic shifts leading to displacement of long-time residents.
The increase in median income in Power should be viewed in the context of national income trends and inflation. The national median household income grew by about 27% from 2013 to 2022, making Power's 57% increase notable. This suggests that the neighborhood may be experiencing more rapid economic development compared to national averages, possibly due to local economic initiatives or changing dynamics within Wichita's urban core.
Power remains a Black Majority neighborhood but shows signs of evolving towards greater diversity. This demographic shift, coupled with significant economic improvement, indicates a community in transition. The challenge moving forward will be to maintain the neighborhood's historical character and support long-time residents while embracing the benefits of increasing diversity and economic growth.
