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Demographic and Economic Trends in Kensington-Woods: Analysis of Racial Composition and Income Growth
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Kensington-Woods, a neighborhood in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, exhibits a White Majority demographic composition, with 59% of the population identifying as white in 2022. The neighborhood has experienced economic growth over the past decade, with the median income increasing from $62,987 in 2013 to $91,117 in 2022. This area is known for its parks and tree-lined streets, contributing to its reputation as a desirable residential location.
Over the past decade, Kensington-Woods has undergone a transition in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood was categorized as a Moderate Diversity area, with 48% white and 43% black residents. By 2015, the area had shifted to a White Majority status, which it has maintained through 2022, with some fluctuations. The percentage of white residents peaked in 2015 at 75%, briefly pushing the neighborhood into a Low Diversity category. Since then, there has been an increase in racial diversity, with the black population growing from 22% in 2015 to 41% in 2022.
The demographic shifts in Kensington-Woods have coincided with economic growth. The median income has increased by approximately 45% from 2013 to 2022. The peak in median income ($100,669 in 2019) corresponded with a period of greater racial balance, with 60% white and 40% black residents. The population has fluctuated but shows an overall upward trend, growing from 786 in 2013 to 1,152 in 2022.
The demographic evolution of Kensington-Woods reflects broader national trends of increasing diversity in suburban areas. The neighborhood's economic growth outpaces national averages, with its median income consistently above the U.S. median household income. The neighborhood's transition from Moderate Diversity to White Majority, followed by a gradual return towards greater diversity, is similar to patterns seen in other economically ascending areas across the United States.
Kensington-Woods appears to be maintaining a significant black population alongside its economic growth. This pattern suggests that Kensington-Woods may be evolving into a model of inclusive prosperity, where economic growth benefits a diverse population. It will be important to monitor future trends to ensure that this diversity is maintained and that the neighborhood doesn't return to a Low Diversity category as it did briefly in 2015.
Kensington-Woods presents a case study of a neighborhood experiencing demographic shifts alongside economic growth. Its ability to maintain diversity while experiencing rising incomes could offer insights for other communities striving for economic development and inclusive community building.
