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Demographic Changes in Highland Oaks: A Study of Racial Composition Shifts
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Highland Oaks, a neighborhood in St. Petersburg, Florida, exhibits a demographic profile categorized as "Low Diversity" with a strong Black majority. As of 2022, the Black population constitutes 74% of the neighborhood, while the white population has increased to 12%. The median income in 2022 was $43,454. Highland Oaks has maintained a consistent population size over the years, ranging from 1,700 to 2,000 residents, suggesting a stable community structure despite demographic shifts.
Over the past decade, Highland Oaks has undergone a transition in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood had "Low Diversity" with a 97% Black majority. By 2022, while still maintaining a Black majority, the community has become more diverse. The Black population decreased from 97% in 2013 to 74% in 2022. The white population increased from 2% in 2013 to 12% in 2022. The "Two or More Races" category grew from 0% in 2013 to 13% in 2022. This shift suggests that Highland Oaks is moving towards a "Transitional Community" status, with increasing racial diversity, although it still maintains a strong Black majority.
The median income in Highland Oaks has fluctuated over the years. In 2013, it was $44,351. It reached its lowest point in 2017 at $35,577. By 2022, it had risen to $43,454. Despite the demographic changes, the median income has remained relatively stable when comparing 2013 to 2022. The slight increase in income from 2017 to 2022 correlates with the increase in racial diversity, suggesting that new residents might be contributing to economic stability.
The demographic shifts observed in Highland Oaks align with broader trends seen in many urban areas across the United States, where historically segregated neighborhoods are experiencing gradual integration. However, the pace of change in Highland Oaks appears to be slower than in many other urban areas, maintaining a strong Black majority despite increasing diversity.
The median income in Highland Oaks ($43,454 in 2022) is lower than the national median household income, which was approximately $70,784 in 2021. This suggests that while the neighborhood is becoming more diverse, it still faces economic challenges compared to national averages.
The stability in population size over the years, despite demographic changes, indicates that the neighborhood is likely experiencing a gradual replacement of residents rather than a sudden influx or exodus. This gradual change could be allowing for a more organic integration process, potentially minimizing rapid gentrification effects that are often seen in urban neighborhoods undergoing demographic shifts.
Highland Oaks is showing signs of transitioning from a highly homogeneous Black community to a more diverse neighborhood, albeit at a measured pace. While economic indicators have remained relatively stable, the community still faces economic challenges. The gradual nature of these changes may provide opportunities for community building and integration, but also calls for attention to ensure equitable development and prevent potential displacement of long-term residents.
