Loading Content...
Demographic and Racial Trends in South Waccamaw Neighborhood, Columbia, South Carolina
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
South Waccamaw, a neighborhood in Columbia, South Carolina, exhibits a unique demographic composition as of 2022. The area is classified as a "Moderate Diversity" community, with a white population of 51% and a black population of 40%. Over the past decade, South Waccamaw has transitioned from a predominantly white area to one with increasing racial diversity. The neighborhood has also experienced significant economic growth, with the median income increasing from $32,065 in 2017 to $61,579 in 2022.
South Waccamaw has undergone a significant transformation in its racial composition over the past decade. In 2013, the neighborhood was categorized as having a "White Majority" with 56% of the population being white. By 2022, the community had shifted to a "Moderate Diversity" classification. This transition is marked by the decline in the white population percentage from 56% in 2013 to 51% in 2022 and an increase in the black population from 40% in 2013 to 47% in 2020, before settling at 40% in 2022.
The Hispanic population, which was negligible until 2015, has grown to 9% by 2022, contributing to the neighborhood's increasing diversity. This trend suggests that South Waccamaw may be evolving into a "Transitional Community," with the potential to become a "High Diversity" area in the future if current trends continue.
The demographic shifts in South Waccamaw have been accompanied by significant economic changes. The median income has shown an upward trend, particularly from 2017 onwards. After a period of decline from 2013 ($39,856) to 2017 ($32,065), the median income nearly doubled to $61,579 by 2022. This economic upturn coincides with the increasing diversity of the neighborhood, suggesting a possible correlation between demographic changes and economic growth.
The population of South Waccamaw has remained relatively stable over the decade, fluctuating between 300-400 residents. However, there is a slight downward trend in recent years, from 404 in 2020 to 311 in 2022. This could indicate that while incomes are rising, some residents may be moving out, possibly due to increasing property values or changing neighborhood dynamics.
The demographic changes in South Waccamaw reflect broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban areas. Many U.S. cities have experienced similar transitions from predominantly white neighborhoods to more diverse communities, often accompanied by economic changes. The substantial income growth in South Waccamaw, especially post-2017, outpaces the national average and suggests a period of local economic revitalization or gentrification.
The growing Hispanic population in the neighborhood, while still relatively small, mirrors the nationwide trend of increasing Hispanic populations in various communities across the United States. This trend is often associated with changing cultural dynamics and economic opportunities in urban areas.
South Waccamaw presents a case study of a neighborhood in transition. Its evolution from a "White Majority" area to a "Moderate Diversity" community, coupled with significant economic growth, reflects both local dynamics and broader national trends. As the community continues to change, it will be interesting to observe how these demographic and economic shifts impact local culture, community cohesion, and future development in the area.
