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Demographic Analysis of Tom Town: A Predominantly Black Neighborhood in Valdosta, Georgia
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Tom Town, a neighborhood in Valdosta, Georgia, exemplifies a low diversity community with a racial majority. As of 2022, the Black population constitutes 87% of the residents, establishing it as a Black majority area. The neighborhood faces economic challenges, with a median income of $23,752 in 2022, below the national average. Tom Town is characterized by strong community bonds and resilience in the face of economic hardship.
Over the past decade, Tom Town has maintained its status as a Black majority community. The Black population represented 86% of the community in 2013, fluctuating slightly and reaching 91% in 2021 before settling at 87% in 2022. The white population decreased from 9% in 2017 to 6% in 2022. The Asian population increased from near-zero to 4% in 2022, potentially indicating the early stages of a transitional community.
The economic landscape of Tom Town has been volatile over the past decade. The median income peaked in 2013 at $29,459 but declined to $16,640 in 2018. Since then, there has been a gradual recovery, with the median income rising to $23,752 in 2022. This economic volatility correlates with population fluctuations, as the neighborhood experienced a decrease in population from 4,046 in 2013 to 2,964 in 2018, coinciding with the period of economic decline.
The persistence of the Black majority throughout these economic fluctuations indicates a strong community attachment to the area, despite financial challenges. The recent increase in the Asian population coincides with a period of economic recovery, potentially signaling new economic opportunities attracting a more diverse population.
The demographic composition of Tom Town contrasts with national trends towards increasing diversity. While many urban areas across the U.S. have seen growing Hispanic and Asian populations over the past decade, Tom Town has maintained a predominantly Black community. The recent increase in the Asian population may indicate the beginning of a shift towards the national trend of increasing diversity.
Economically, Tom Town's median income remains below the national median household income, which was approximately $67,521 in 2020. This disparity highlights the persistent economic challenges faced by the community, even as it shows signs of recovery. The neighborhood's economic trajectory, with its sharp decline and gradual recovery, mirrors broader patterns seen in many economically challenged urban areas across the country, particularly those with predominantly minority populations.
Tom Town presents a case of a community maintaining its demographic character as a Black majority area while navigating significant economic challenges. The recent signs of economic recovery and subtle shifts in racial composition suggest the potential for transition in the coming years, warranting continued observation of this community.
