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Demographic Analysis of South East Lake: A Black Majority Neighborhood in Birmingham, Alabama
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
South East Lake, a neighborhood in Birmingham, Alabama, exhibits a demographic profile characterized by a Black majority, with 69% of the population identifying as Black in 2022. The neighborhood's median income was $32,821 in 2022. South East Lake features early 20th-century bungalows and cottages, contributing to its architectural character.
Over the past decade, South East Lake has maintained its status as a Black majority neighborhood. The Black population decreased from 74% in 2013 to 69% in 2022. The White population remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 21% and 29%. The Hispanic population increased from 1% in 2013 to 5% in 2022. Other racial groups saw minimal representation with slight increases in Asian and multiracial populations by 2022.
The economic landscape of South East Lake has shown variability. Median income increased from $26,359 in 2013 to $33,922 in 2019, followed by a decline to $26,758 in 2021, and a recovery to $32,821 in 2022. The neighborhood's population fluctuated, with a notable dip in 2017 (6,532) but recovering to 7,254 by 2022, close to its 2013 levels.
The economic trends loosely correlate with demographic shifts. The period of increasing diversity (2013-2019) coincided with rising median incomes. Recent income volatility (2020-2022) occurred during a period of relative demographic stability, indicating other factors influenced economic conditions.
The gradual diversification of South East Lake aligns with broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban areas. The neighborhood's persistent Black majority contrasts with many urban areas experiencing more rapid demographic changes. The economic fluctuations, particularly the sharp decline in 2021 followed by a quick recovery in 2022, likely reflect the broader economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The neighborhood's median income, while showing improvement over the decade, remains below the national median household income. This suggests that while South East Lake has made economic progress, it still faces economic challenges compared to national averages.
South East Lake represents a neighborhood in slow transition, maintaining its Black majority status while gradually becoming more diverse. Its economic journey over the past decade reflects both local dynamics and broader national trends, with recent volatility highlighting the community's resilience in the face of global economic challenges.
