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Demographic Analysis of Squirrel Hill North: From Low Diversity to White Majority with Moderate Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Squirrel Hill North, a neighborhood in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is characterized as a White Majority community with a significant Asian population. As of 2022, the neighborhood exhibits Moderate Diversity, with white residents comprising 69% of the population and Asian residents making up 17%. The area has a median income of $111,022 in 2022, which is above the national average. Squirrel Hill North is known for its strong Jewish community and high-quality schools.
Over the past decade, Squirrel Hill North has transitioned from Low Diversity to Moderate Diversity. In 2013, the neighborhood was categorized as Low Diversity, with white residents making up 75% of the population. By 2022, this percentage decreased to 69%, while the Asian population increased from 12% to 17%. This shift is attributed to factors such as the presence of international students and professionals, the neighborhood's reputation for excellent schools, and a general trend towards increased diversity in urban areas.
The demographic shifts in Squirrel Hill North have occurred alongside fluctuations in median income. From 2013 to 2017, the neighborhood experienced a significant increase in median income, rising from $109,605 to $139,534. This period coincided with the initial stages of increased diversity, particularly the growth of the Asian population. However, from 2018 to 2022, there was a decline in median income, dropping from $119,643 to $111,022. This decline occurred simultaneously with continued diversification, including a slight increase in the Hispanic population and those identifying as two or more races.
The trends observed in Squirrel Hill North align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in urban and suburban areas, particularly those near major universities and technology hubs. The growth in the Asian population reflects a national trend of increased Asian immigration and internal migration to areas with strong educational and professional opportunities. However, the neighborhood's continued status as a White Majority area, despite increasing diversity, sets it apart from many urban neighborhoods that have transitioned to Majority-Minority status over the same period.
The recent decline in median income, while still maintaining a high overall level, may reflect broader economic trends such as income inequality and the impact of economic fluctuations on high-income areas. Despite this decline, Squirrel Hill North remains significantly more affluent than many other neighborhoods in Pittsburgh and across the nation.
Squirrel Hill North presents a case of gradual, stable diversification within the context of an affluent, historically white neighborhood. The community appears to be integrating new residents from diverse backgrounds while maintaining its status as a desirable, high-income area. This balanced approach to demographic change could serve as a model for other communities seeking to increase diversity while preserving neighborhood stability and economic prosperity.
