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Demographic and Economic Analysis of Wylam, Birmingham: A Predominantly Black Neighborhood
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Wylam, a neighborhood in Birmingham, Alabama, is characterized as a predominantly Black community with a racial majority of 79% as of 2022. The neighborhood is classified as "Low Diversity" due to its significant Black majority and minimal representation from other racial groups. Economically, Wylam's median income was $43,649 in 2022, showing notable fluctuations over the past decade.
Throughout the period from 2013 to 2022, Wylam has maintained its status as a "Low Diversity" community with a strong Black majority. The Black population has remained relatively stable, ranging between 78% and 84%. A slight increase in racial diversity has been observed, particularly in the growth of the "Two or More Races" category from 0% in 2013 to 4% in 2022. This subtle shift suggests the neighborhood may be in the early stages of becoming a "Transitional Community," albeit at a slow pace.
The White population has remained a minority, fluctuating between 13% and 17% over the decade, while the Hispanic population has consistently been around 1-3%. Other racial categories have maintained minimal representation throughout this period.
Wylam has experienced a significant increase in median income over the past decade, rising from $25,720 in 2013 to $43,649 in 2022, representing a 70% increase. This economic growth has occurred alongside a slight decrease in population, from 4,565 in 2013 to 3,921 in 2022. The periods of most substantial income growth coincide with slight increases in racial diversity. For instance, the median income increased from $34,291 in 2017 to $40,561 in 2018, corresponding with a small increase in the Black population percentage and a slight decrease in the White population percentage.
The demographic makeup of Wylam contrasts with Birmingham as a whole, which tends to have more diversity despite also having a Black majority. The economic growth in Wylam is notable, especially considering that many urban neighborhoods across the United States have struggled with income stagnation over the same period. However, Wylam's median income remains below the national median, which was approximately $70,784 in 2021, suggesting a significant gap compared to national averages.
The slight increase in racial diversity, particularly in the "Two or More Races" category, aligns with national trends of increasing multiracial identification. However, the pace of this change in Wylam appears slower than in many urban areas across the United States. While Wylam remains a predominantly Black, low-diversity neighborhood, subtle shifts in demographics and more substantial changes in economic conditions suggest a community in gradual transition. The challenge for Wylam moving forward will be to maintain its economic growth while potentially embracing increased diversity, which could further contribute to the neighborhood's development and vitality.
