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Demographic Analysis of West Central Jackson: A Predominantly Black Neighborhood
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
West Central Jackson, a neighborhood in Jackson, Mississippi, exhibits characteristics of Low Diversity with a predominantly Black population (93% in 2022). The neighborhood has faced economic challenges, with a median income of $28,255 in 2022, which is below the national average. West Central Jackson is known for its rich cultural heritage, particularly in African American history and civil rights activism.
Over the past decade, West Central Jackson has maintained its status as a Low Diversity area with a strong Black Majority. The Black population has remained above 89% throughout the period, increasing from 91% in 2013 to 93% in 2022. This stability in racial composition suggests a deeply rooted African American community with strong cultural ties.
The neighborhood has experienced subtle shifts in its demographic makeup. There has been a slight decrease in the White population from 8% in 2013 to 5% in 2022. A small increase in the Hispanic population occurred, from 0% in 2013 to 2% in 2022. A small multiracial population emerged around 2016, remaining at about 1% since then. These minor shifts suggest the beginnings of a possible Transitional Community, albeit at a very slow pace.
The median income in West Central Jackson has shown a modest increase over the years, from $24,612 in 2013 to $28,255 in 2022. This 14.8% increase over nine years barely keeps pace with inflation, suggesting stagnant real income growth. The neighborhood's economic struggles are evident when compared to national median household income figures, which were significantly higher (around $70,784 in 2021).
The population of West Central Jackson has declined from 7,281 in 2013 to 6,519 in 2022, a decrease of about 10.5%. This population decline, coupled with the slow income growth, suggests ongoing economic challenges that may be prompting out-migration, particularly among working-age adults seeking better opportunities.
The demographic stability of West Central Jackson contrasts with national trends towards increasing diversity in many urban areas. While many U.S. cities have seen growing Hispanic and Asian populations, West Central Jackson has maintained its predominantly Black demographic profile.
The economic struggles of West Central Jackson reflect broader issues faced by many predominantly Black neighborhoods in the American South. The persistent low income levels and population decline are indicative of systemic challenges related to economic opportunity, education, and infrastructure investment that are common in similar communities across the region.
West Central Jackson presents a picture of a neighborhood grappling with economic challenges while maintaining a strong, culturally homogeneous community. The slow pace of demographic change and modest economic improvements suggest a community that may benefit from targeted economic development initiatives and programs to attract and retain a diverse population while preserving its rich cultural heritage.
