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Demographic Analysis of Upton: A Low Diversity, Black Majority Neighborhood in Baltimore
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Upton, a neighborhood in Baltimore, Maryland, is characterized as a Low Diversity community with a clear Racial Majority. As of 2022, the African American population comprises 94% of residents, establishing Upton as a Black Majority neighborhood. The median income in Upton was $22,509 in 2022. Upton is known for its rich African American cultural heritage, including the historic Pennsylvania Avenue.
Over the past decade, Upton has maintained its status as a Low Diversity, Black Majority neighborhood. The percentage of African American residents has remained stable, decreasing slightly from 96% in 2013 to 94% in 2022. The white population has increased from 1% in 2013 to 3% in 2022, and the percentage of residents identifying as two or more races has grown from 1% to 2%. These changes suggest the beginnings of a gradual diversification.
The economic situation in Upton has been volatile over the past decade. The median income fluctuated, reaching a low of $15,669 in 2015 and a high of $22,509 in 2022. This represents a nominal increase of about 19% from 2013 to 2022, but when adjusted for inflation, the real economic gains are minimal. The population has declined from 5,250 in 2013 to 4,513 in 2022, a decrease of about 14%.
Upton's demographic stability contrasts with national trends towards increasing diversity in urban areas. While many U.S. cities have experienced significant demographic shifts due to immigration and gentrification, Upton's racial composition has remained largely unchanged. This could be attributed to strong community ties, historical significance, or limited economic opportunities.
The economic struggles of Upton reflect broader challenges faced by many predominantly African American urban neighborhoods across the United States. The median income in Upton ($22,509 in 2022) is significantly below the national median household income (which was about $70,784 in 2021), highlighting the persistent economic disparities often associated with racially segregated urban areas.
The gradual increase in racial diversity, albeit small, may signal the early stages of change that many similar neighborhoods have experienced. However, the pace of change in Upton appears to be much slower than in many other urban areas that have undergone rapid gentrification or demographic shifts.
In conclusion, Upton remains a Low Diversity, Black Majority neighborhood with significant economic challenges. Subtle signs of change are emerging. The coming years will be crucial in determining whether these small shifts will accelerate into more significant demographic and economic transformations, or if Upton will continue to maintain its distinct cultural identity in the face of broader urban trends.
