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Demographic Analysis of Western Hills, Jackson: Black Majority Community in Transition
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Western Hills, a neighborhood in Jackson, Mississippi, exhibits a demographic profile categorized as a "Black Majority" community. As of 2022, the neighborhood has a population of 537, with 66% of residents identifying as Black. This urban area has undergone demographic changes over the past decade, accompanied by fluctuations in median income. Western Hills is located near Jackson State University, which may influence its demographic composition and economic dynamics.
Over the past decade, Western Hills has experienced a transition in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood was characterized by 89% of the population identifying as Black. By 2022, while still maintaining a "Black Majority" status, this percentage had decreased to 66%. This shift indicates a trend towards increasing diversity. The most significant change has been the increase in the white population, rising from 11% in 2013 to 32% in 2022.
The median income in Western Hills has shown volatility over the observed period. In 2013, the median income was $66,732, which fluctuated over the years, reaching $76,311 in 2019 before declining to $67,793 in 2022. The population of Western Hills has decreased from 672 in 2013 to 537 in 2022, a decline of about 20%. This population decrease, coupled with the changing racial demographics and fluctuating income levels, indicates a neighborhood in transition.
The demographic changes in Western Hills reflect trends seen in many urban areas across the United States, where historically predominantly Black neighborhoods are experiencing an influx of white residents. However, the economic fluctuations in Western Hills do not necessarily follow the typical pattern of steadily increasing property values and incomes.
The presence of Jackson State University nearby may be influencing these trends, potentially attracting a more diverse student and faculty population to the area. This could explain the increasing diversity without the consistent upward trajectory in median income.
Western Hills presents a complex picture of a neighborhood in transition. While maintaining its status as a "Black Majority" community, it shows signs of moving towards greater diversity. The economic fluctuations and population decline suggest that this transition is not without challenges. As the neighborhood continues to evolve, it will be crucial to monitor how these demographic and economic changes impact the local community and its long-standing residents.
