Loading Content...
Demographic Analysis of Uptown, Harrisburg: Black Plurality and Racial Composition Shifts
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Uptown, a neighborhood in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, represents a Majority-Minority community with a Black Plurality. As of 2022, the neighborhood has a population of 11,068 and a median income of $45,236. Uptown is known for its historic architecture and proximity to the Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex.
Over the past decade, Uptown has maintained its status as a Majority-Minority community. From 2013 to 2022, the Black population has remained the largest racial group, though its share has fluctuated. It peaked at 50% in 2019 but decreased to 45% by 2022, maintaining a plurality but no longer a majority. The Hispanic population has shown a significant increase, rising from 13% in 2013 to 24% in 2022. This trend suggests a Transitional Community status.
The White population has decreased from 29% in 2013 to 25% in 2022, indicating a gradual shift in the neighborhood's racial composition. The Asian population showed an increase from 2% in 2013 to 7% in 2017 but has since decreased to 1% in 2022, demonstrating volatility in this demographic.
The median income in Uptown has shown overall growth, albeit with fluctuations. From $43,055 in 2013 to $45,236 in 2022, representing a modest increase of about 5% over the decade. The median income peaked at $47,870 in 2021 before declining slightly in 2022. The population has remained relatively stable, growing from 10,932 in 2013 to 11,068 in 2022.
The growth in the Hispanic population correlates with periods of economic improvement. The decline in the White population percentage coincides with periods of lower median income (2014-2016). The relatively stable Black plurality aligns with the overall stability in population and gradual income growth.
Uptown's trends reflect broader national patterns. Increasing diversity in urban areas, particularly growth in Hispanic populations, is a trend seen in many U.S. cities. The modest income growth over the decade is consistent with slow wage growth experienced in many parts of the country post-2008 recession. The maintenance of a Black plurality in an urban neighborhood near a state capitol is notable.
Uptown demonstrates characteristics of a Transitional Community within its Majority-Minority status. The increasing Hispanic population, coupled with the maintenance of a strong Black plurality and gradual economic improvements, suggests a neighborhood in flux but with a stable core. These demographic shifts may lead to further changes in local businesses, cultural institutions, and political representation in the coming years.
