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Demographic Analysis of Rocky Mount, North Carolina: A Black Majority City with Emerging Racial Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Rocky Mount, North Carolina, is classified as a Black Majority city based on demographic data from 2022. African Americans constitute 60% of the population. The city's demographic composition has remained relatively stable over the past decade, with minor changes in racial distribution and economic indicators. As of 2022, Rocky Mount had a population of 59,634 and a median income of $48,472.
Rocky Mount has maintained its status as a Black Majority city from 2013 to 2022. The African American population has remained stable at approximately 60%, while the white population has decreased from 35% in 2013 to 31% in 2022. The Hispanic population has increased from 2% in 2013 to 5% in 2022, and the multiracial population has grown from 1% to 3% during the same period. These changes indicate a gradual increase in diversity, although not sufficient to alter the city's overall classification.
The median income in Rocky Mount has increased overall, rising from $40,073 in 2013 to $48,472 in 2022, representing a 21% increase over the decade. This growth has been inconsistent, with fluctuations observed. A significant increase in median income occurred between 2017 and 2020, followed by a slight decline in 2022.
Rocky Mount's population has been consistently declining, from 63,226 in 2013 to 59,634 in 2022, a decrease of approximately 5.7%. The combination of population decline and overall increase in median income suggests a complex economic situation where the city may be experiencing some economic improvements despite losing residents.
The trends in Rocky Mount reflect some broader patterns observed in many mid-sized American cities, particularly in the South. The slight increase in diversity aligns with national demographic trends. The population decline may indicate challenges in retaining residents, possibly due to economic factors or migration to larger urban centers.
Based on observed trends, Rocky Mount is likely to continue its gradual shift towards increased diversity over the next decade. It may remain a Black Majority city in the near term, but there is a possibility of transitioning towards a Majority-Minority status if current trends persist and accelerate. The Hispanic and multiracial populations are projected to continue growing, potentially reaching 7-8% and 4-5% respectively by 2030.
Economically, if the city can reverse its population decline and maintain its income growth trajectory, it could see further improvements in median income. However, the recent fluctuations and slight decline in 2022 suggest caution in projecting continuous growth.
Rocky Mount appears to be slowly evolving towards a more diverse community while facing economic challenges and opportunities. The city's ability to attract and retain a diverse population while fostering economic growth will be crucial in determining its future demographic and economic landscape.
