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Demographic Analysis of Walnut Park West: A Low Diversity, Black Majority Neighborhood in St. Louis
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Walnut Park West, a neighborhood in St. Louis, Missouri, exhibits characteristics of a "Low Diversity" community with a "Black Majority." As of 2022, the neighborhood's population is 4,497, with African Americans comprising 93% of residents. The median income in 2022 is $38,053, showing significant fluctuation over the past decade. This neighborhood has historical significance in St. Louis's urban development and faces challenges typical of many inner-city areas in the Midwest.
Throughout the period from 2013 to 2022, Walnut Park West has maintained its status as a "Black Majority" neighborhood. The percentage of Black residents has remained above 88% during this period, with slight fluctuations. A minor trend towards increased diversity occurred between 2015 and 2019, with the Black population decreasing from 96% to 88%. This trend reversed in 2020, returning to 96% Black population.
The neighborhood has experienced a small but steady increase in residents identifying as two or more races, growing from 0% in 2013 to 3% in 2022. This indicates a gradual shift towards slightly higher diversity, albeit still within the "Low Diversity" category.
The median income in Walnut Park West has shown a general upward trend over the past decade, with significant fluctuations. In 2013, the median income was $22,915, increasing to $38,053 by 2022, representing a 66% increase. This growth was not linear, with a notable dip in 2014 and 2015, followed by a steady increase until 2021, when it peaked at $47,475 before declining in 2022.
These economic changes do not appear to correlate strongly with the minor demographic shifts observed. The increase in median income occurred while the racial composition remained relatively stable, suggesting other factors, such as local economic policies or broader economic trends, may have played a more significant role in income changes.
Population figures have fluctuated over the years, with no clear long-term trend. The population was lowest in 2019 at 3,853 and highest in 2014 at 4,971. These fluctuations do not seem to correspond directly with changes in racial composition or median income.
The persistent "Black Majority" status of Walnut Park West reflects broader patterns of racial segregation that have historically characterized many urban areas in the United States, particularly in the Midwest. The slight increase in racial diversity aligns with national trends towards increasing multiracial populations in urban areas.
The economic improvements seen in Walnut Park West, particularly the increase in median income, are notable but should be viewed in the context of broader economic disparities. Despite the increase, the 2022 median income of $38,053 still falls significantly below the national median household income, which was around $70,000 in 2021.
The neighborhood's demographic stability in the face of economic changes suggests a strong community identity and attachment to place, which is common in historically Black neighborhoods in many American cities. It also highlights the persistent challenges of economic mobility and integration that many such communities face.
In conclusion, while Walnut Park West has seen some positive economic trends over the past decade, its demographic composition has remained largely stable, maintaining its status as a "Low Diversity" neighborhood with a strong "Black Majority." The community's economic progress, coupled with its demographic stability, presents both opportunities and challenges for future development and integration within the broader St. Louis metropolitan area.
