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Demographic and Economic Trends in Oakhill Jackson: A White Majority Neighborhood with Increasing Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Oakhill Jackson, a neighborhood in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is characterized as a "White Majority" community with moderate diversity. As of 2022, the white population comprises 75% of residents, with notable representation from Black and Hispanic populations. The neighborhood has experienced significant economic growth over the past decade, with median income increasing from $51,280 in 2013 to $61,700 in 2022. Oakhill Jackson has historical significance as one of the first areas in Cedar Rapids settled by African American residents in the late 19th century.
Over the past decade, Oakhill Jackson has maintained its "White Majority" status, with fluctuations in diversity levels. In 2013, the neighborhood had "Low Diversity" with 82% white population. By 2018, it transitioned to "Moderate Diversity" with the white population decreasing to 71% and the Black population increasing to 17%. The community reverted to a stronger white majority by 2022 (75%). The Black population has shown significant growth, increasing from 9% in 2013 to 16% in 2022. The Hispanic population has quadrupled from 1% to 4% during this period.
The neighborhood has experienced substantial economic growth alongside demographic changes. Median income increased by about 20% from 2013 to 2022. A significant spike in median income occurred in 2021, reaching $74,676. The population has grown from 3,129 in 2013 to 3,641 in 2022, an increase of about 16%. This population growth, coupled with rising incomes, suggests Oakhill Jackson is becoming increasingly attractive for diverse groups of residents.
The trends observed in Oakhill Jackson align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in urban areas. Many Midwestern cities have experienced similar demographic shifts, with growing Black and Hispanic populations in traditionally white-majority neighborhoods. The economic growth in Oakhill Jackson also reflects a general trend of urban revitalization seen in many mid-sized American cities.
The neighborhood's resilience in maintaining a white majority, despite increasing diversity, is noteworthy. This could indicate a balance between new diverse residents moving in and the retention of long-term white residents, potentially due to the neighborhood's improving economic conditions.
Oakhill Jackson presents a case of a neighborhood in transition. While it remains a "White Majority" community, it shows signs of evolving towards greater diversity. The concurrent economic growth suggests this demographic shift is occurring alongside neighborhood development and improved living standards. As Oakhill Jackson continues to change, it will be important to monitor how these demographic and economic trends interact and shape the future character of this historic Cedar Rapids neighborhood.
