Loading Content...
Demographic Analysis of Westbelt: A Low Diversity Neighborhood with Predominant White Population
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
DATA SOURCE
United States Census Bureau: American Community Survey Data (ACS)
Westbelt, a neighborhood in Columbus, Ohio, is classified as a "Low Diversity" area based on its demographic profile as of 2022. The white population comprises 87% of the total, exceeding the 75% threshold for this classification. The neighborhood has experienced economic growth, with the median income increasing from $62,385 in 2015 to $92,716 in 2022. Westbelt's proximity to the John Glenn Columbus International Airport is a notable feature.
Over the past decade, Westbelt has maintained its "Low Diversity" status. The white population has remained dominant, fluctuating between 82% and 91% from 2013 to 2022. Minor shifts in other racial groups have occurred: the black population decreased from 5% in 2013 to 1% in 2017, then rose back to 5% by 2022; the Hispanic population declined from 5% in 2013 to 1% by 2022; the Asian population increased slightly from 1% to 2%; and the population identifying as two or more races grew from 1% in 2013 to 4% in 2022.
The neighborhood has experienced significant economic growth over the past decade. Median income rose from $74,008 in 2013 to $92,716 in 2022, a 25% increase. A notable increase occurred between 2020 and 2021, with median income rising from $91,247 to $99,660. The population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 4,200 and 4,500 residents.
(sponsored content)
Westbelt's demographic trends differ from national patterns. While the U.S. has been moving towards greater diversity, with the white population decreasing from 63.7% in 2010 to 57.8% in 2020, Westbelt has maintained its predominantly white demographic. However, the neighborhood's economic growth aligns with broader trends of urban economic revitalization seen in many U.S. cities over the past decade.
The increase in residents identifying as two or more races (from 1% to 4%) reflects a national trend, where this category grew significantly between the 2010 and 2020 censuses. This could indicate a shift in how people perceive and report their racial identity, rather than a significant change in the actual racial makeup of the neighborhood.
Westbelt's proximity to the airport may explain its ability to maintain economic growth while resisting significant demographic changes. The stable job market associated with the airport and related industries could be attracting and retaining a specific demographic profile, contributing to the neighborhood's low diversity but high economic stability.
In conclusion, while Westbelt has not undergone dramatic demographic shifts, subtle changes in its racial composition, coupled with significant economic growth, suggest a neighborhood that is slowly evolving while maintaining its core characteristics. The challenge for the future may lie in balancing economic prosperity with opportunities for increased diversity and inclusion.
