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Demographic and Racial Shifts in Webster Station, Dayton: From Moderate Diversity to White Majority
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Webster Station, a neighborhood in Dayton, Ohio, has transitioned from a Moderate Diversity community to a White Majority community between 2013 and 2022. The median income in the area increased from $14,293 to $55,686 during this period. Webster Station has historical significance as part of Dayton's industrial heritage, with many former factories and warehouses being repurposed for modern use.
In 2013, Webster Station was categorized as a Moderate Diversity community, with a population split of 59% White and 34% Black. By 2022, the demographic composition shifted to 69% White and 19% Black. The Hispanic population grew from 3% to 9% during this time. These changes suggest a trend towards a more multicultural neighborhood in the future.
The demographic shifts in Webster Station correlate with significant economic changes. The median income increased nearly fourfold over a decade, from $14,293 in 2013 to $55,686 in 2022. This economic turnaround coincides with the neighborhood's demographic changes, suggesting a possible gentrification process. The population also grew from 547 in 2013 to 812 in 2022, indicating increased desirability of the neighborhood.
The changes observed in Webster Station mirror broader trends seen in many urban areas across the United States. The process of gentrification, characterized by an influx of wealthier residents and rising property values, is a common phenomenon in revitalizing urban neighborhoods. The rapid pace of economic change in Webster Station is particularly notable, with the nearly fourfold increase in median income over a decade being exceptionally dramatic.
The decrease in the Black population percentage, while the White and Hispanic populations increased, reflects national trends of changing urban demographics. However, the extent of this shift is more pronounced in Webster Station compared to national averages, indicating localized factors at play.
Webster Station has undergone a significant transformation over the past decade, evolving from a moderately diverse, low-income area to a more affluent, predominantly White neighborhood with growing Hispanic representation. These changes reflect broader urban renewal trends but have occurred at an accelerated pace, suggesting targeted redevelopment efforts. The neighborhood's evolution will continue to impact long-term residents and community dynamics.
