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Demographic and Economic Analysis of Knolls-Thomas: A Low Diversity, White Majority Neighborhood
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Knolls-Thomas neighborhood in Columbus, Ohio, is a Low Diversity community with a White Majority. In 2022, 92% of the population identified as white. The neighborhood experienced economic fluctuations over the past decade. The median income decreased from $111,274 in 2015 to $67,890 in 2022. Knolls-Thomas is known for its well-maintained parks and tree-lined streets, contributing to its status as a desirable residential area within Columbus.
From 2013 to 2022, Knolls-Thomas maintained its status as a White Majority community. Minor shifts in diversity occurred during this period. From 2013 to 2016, the neighborhood exhibited extremely Low Diversity, with the white population comprising 94-97% of residents. Between 2017 and 2019, a slight increase in diversity occurred, though still categorized as Low Diversity. The percentage of residents identifying as two or more races increased from 1% to 5-6%, and the Asian population grew to 6%. From 2020 to 2022, a minor reversal of this trend was observed, with the white population increasing from 85% to 92%, reinforcing the Low Diversity categorization.
The neighborhood's economic trajectory shows a clear downward trend. From 2013 to 2016, the area experienced peak affluence with median incomes around $110,000. Between 2017 and 2019, there was a sharp decline to about $75,000-$76,000. From 2020 to 2022, there was a further decrease and fluctuation between $54,000 and $72,000. This economic downturn does not appear to correlate strongly with racial demographic shifts, as the community's racial composition remained relatively stable. The declining income levels might indicate broader economic challenges affecting the area.
Population trends show modest growth from 1,542 in 2010 to 1,871 in 2022, suggesting the neighborhood remains desirable despite economic challenges.
The persistent White Majority in Knolls-Thomas contrasts with national trends towards increasing diversity. Many urban areas across the U.S. have experienced growing minority populations and transitions to Majority-Minority status over the past decade.
The sharp decline in median income is notable. The extent of income reduction in Knolls-Thomas (nearly 40% from peak to trough) is more severe than typical national trends. This suggests local factors, perhaps related to changes in the Columbus job market or shifts in the neighborhood's employment base, may be at play.
The neighborhood's ability to maintain population growth despite economic challenges indicates it likely retains some inherent advantages, such as good schools, desirable location, or quality of life factors that continue to attract residents despite the income decline.
In conclusion, Knolls-Thomas has maintained its racial composition as a Low Diversity, White Majority community, but has undergone significant economic changes. The disconnect between demographic stability and economic volatility presents a case study in urban development and resilience.
