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Demographic and Economic Analysis of Winter Gardens/Brightwood: A Black Majority Neighborhood in Transition
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Winter Gardens/Brightwood neighborhood in Savannah, Georgia, maintains a Black Majority demographic composition, with 77% of the population identifying as Black in 2022. The neighborhood experienced significant economic growth over the past decade, with median income increasing from $20,614 in 2013 to $41,133 in 2022. This area is situated near Savannah's Forsyth Park, potentially influencing its demographic and economic trends.
Throughout the period from 2013 to 2022, Winter Gardens/Brightwood consistently maintained its Black Majority status. The Black population percentage fluctuated between 70% and 84% during this time. The White population varied from 9% to 22% over the years. The Hispanic population grew from 1% in 2013 to 7% in 2022. In 2017, the neighborhood approached a Moderate Diversity classification when the Black population decreased to 70% and the White population reached 22%.
The neighborhood experienced substantial economic growth. Median income doubled from $20,614 in 2013 to $41,133 in 2022. A significant increase occurred between 2019 and 2020, with income rising from $30,227 to $41,141. The population fluctuated over the years, decreasing from 698 in 2013 to 519 in 2022, reaching its lowest point of 354 in 2017.
The increase in median income coincides with periods of lower population, suggesting potential gentrification or economic displacement. The slight increase in the White population percentage during some years aligns with this theory.
The increase in Hispanic population aligns with national trends of growing Hispanic communities in many urban areas. The economic growth in Winter Gardens/Brightwood outpaces national averages, with median household income in the U.S. growing by about 10% from 2013 to 2022, compared to the neighborhood's 100% growth. The maintenance of a Black Majority in an urban area experiencing economic growth is notable, as many cities have seen historically Black neighborhoods undergo significant demographic shifts due to gentrification.
Winter Gardens/Brightwood presents a case of a neighborhood maintaining its Black Majority status while experiencing substantial economic growth. The gradual increase in diversity and significant income growth suggest a community in transition, potentially balancing the benefits of economic development with the challenges of maintaining its cultural identity and affordability for long-time residents.
