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Demographic Analysis of Wahouma Neighborhood: Predominant Black Population with Emerging Hispanic Growth
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Wahouma neighborhood in Birmingham, Alabama, is classified as a "Low Diversity" community with a significant Black majority of 78% as of 2022. This neighborhood has undergone demographic and economic changes over the past decade. Wahouma has historical significance in Birmingham's civil rights movement, having been home to several influential African American leaders during the mid-20th century.
Over the past decade, Wahouma has maintained its status as a "Low Diversity" community with a strong Black majority. The percentage of Black residents decreased from 89% in 2013 to 78% in 2022, indicating a gradual diversification. The Hispanic population grew from 4% in 2013 to 13% in 2022, suggesting a "Transitional Community" aspect. The White population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 2% and 9% throughout the decade.
The demographic shifts in Wahouma correlate with changes in median income and population. Median income rose from $18,615 in 2013 to $27,027 in 2022, a 45% increase. The neighborhood's population decreased from 1,532 in 2013 to 1,133 in 2022, a 26% reduction. The gradual increase in diversity coincides with the rise in median income, potentially indicating that new residents are contributing to economic growth in the area.
The combination of rising incomes and population decline is consistent with patterns of urban gentrification seen in many U.S. cities. The increase in Hispanic population aligns with broader national trends of growing Hispanic communities in urban areas across the United States. Despite significant growth, Wahouma's 2022 median income of $27,027 remains well below the national median household income, indicating persistent economic challenges. The maintenance of a strong Black majority despite economic and demographic changes suggests a resilient community identity.
Wahouma presents a picture of a historically Black neighborhood experiencing gradual diversification and economic growth while facing challenges of population decline. These trends reflect broader urban dynamics of gentrification and demographic shift, yet the neighborhood maintains its distinct character as a predominantly African American community with growing Hispanic representation.
