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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Saint Elmo, a neighborhood in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is characterized as a "White Majority" community with moderate diversity. As of 2022, the white population constitutes 74% of residents, with other racial groups contributing to the demographic mix. The neighborhood's median income in 2022 was $51,044, following fluctuations over the past decade. Saint Elmo is notable for its historic charm, featuring Victorian-era homes and a scenic incline railway.
Over the past decade, Saint Elmo has maintained its "White Majority" status while experiencing subtle shifts in racial composition. The white population decreased slightly from 77% in 2014 to 74% in 2022. The Black population decreased from 21% in 2013 to 12% in 2022. The Hispanic population increased from 2% in 2013 to 5% in 2022, and the Asian population rose from 0% to 3% during the same period. The percentage of residents identifying as two or more races increased from 2% to 5%.
The median income in Saint Elmo has shown significant volatility over the past decade. There was a decline from $48,394 in 2013 to $34,974 in 2017, followed by a recovery to $57,429 in 2019. Recent years have seen fluctuations, with the 2022 figure at $51,044. The period of lowest median income (2015-2017) coincided with the highest percentage of white residents, suggesting economic factors may have influenced population movements.
Saint Elmo's demographic trends align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in urban neighborhoods, albeit at a slower rate of change. The economic volatility experienced in Saint Elmo is not uncommon in mid-sized American cities, particularly those undergoing urban renewal or gentrification processes. The neighborhood has maintained a relatively stable population of around 3,500-3,800 residents throughout these economic fluctuations.
Saint Elmo presents a picture of gradual diversification within a predominantly white community, coupled with economic resilience. The neighborhood's ability to attract a slowly increasing diverse population while maintaining its historic character suggests a balance between preservation and evolution. As Saint Elmo continues to navigate these demographic and economic shifts, it will be informative to observe how it preserves its unique identity while adapting to broader societal changes.