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Demographic Analysis of Wilson, North Carolina: Race and Population Trends from 2013 to 2022
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Wilson, North Carolina, exhibits a diverse demographic profile categorized as a "Black Plurality" community. As of 2022, the Black population constitutes 45% of the city's residents, followed by White (37%) and Hispanic (13%) populations. The city's median income is $46,687, with a population of 54,424.
Over the past decade, Wilson has transitioned from a more evenly divided racial composition to a clearer "Black Plurality" status. In 2013, the city was between "White Plurality" and "Black Plurality," with White residents at 45% and Black residents at 42%. By 2022, this gap widened, with Black residents increasing to 45% and White residents decreasing to 37%.
The Hispanic population has shown consistent growth, rising from 7% in 2013 to 13% in 2022. This trend, coupled with the increase in residents identifying as two or more races (from 1% to 2%), suggests that Wilson is moving towards a "Transitional Community" status, with increasing diversity over time.
The median income in Wilson has shown overall growth from $44,775 in 2013 to $46,687 in 2022, an increase of about 4.3%. This growth has not been steady, with fluctuations observed throughout the decade. There was a significant jump in median income between 2016 and 2017 (from $45,535 to $48,521), followed by a peak in 2021 at $51,365, before declining in 2022.
The population of Wilson has remained relatively stable over the decade, peaking at 57,298 in 2014 and gradually declining to 54,424 by 2022. This slight population decrease, coupled with the shifting racial demographics, suggests that the changes are likely due to a combination of outmigration of White residents and natural population growth among minority communities.
The demographic shifts observed in Wilson align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in many urban and suburban areas. The growth in the Hispanic population reflects a nationwide pattern of Hispanic population growth in various regions of the United States.
Based on the observed trends, Wilson will likely continue its trajectory towards greater diversity. The community may transition from a "Black Plurality" to a "Majority-Minority" status in the coming years if current trends persist. The Hispanic population is likely to continue growing, potentially reaching or exceeding 15% of the population within the next five years.
Economically, the recent decline in median income is notable, especially given the previous years of growth. If this trend continues, it could indicate economic challenges for the city. However, if it proves to be a temporary dip, we might see a return to the overall upward trend in median income.
Wilson is evolving into a more diverse community with a strong Black plurality and growing Hispanic presence. The economic future of the city remains uncertain, with recent income declines potentially signaling challenges ahead. City leaders should focus on fostering inclusive economic growth that benefits all demographic groups to ensure a prosperous future for Wilson.
