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Demographic Dynamics in Smith Hill: From Moderate Diversity to Majority-Minority Status
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Smith Hill, a neighborhood in Providence, Rhode Island, has undergone significant demographic changes over the past decade. As of 2022, it exhibits a "Majority-Minority" composition with a Hispanic plurality. The racial distribution shows Hispanic residents comprising 43% of the population, followed by White residents at 37%. No single group exceeds 50% of the population. The median income in 2022 was $56,822, marking a substantial increase from previous years. Smith Hill is characterized by its historic 19th-century houses and proximity to the Rhode Island State House.
The neighborhood has transitioned from "Moderate Diversity" in 2013 to a "Majority-Minority" status by 2020. In 2013, the racial composition showed Hispanic (38%), White (27%), and Black (22%) populations. By 2020, the Hispanic population reached 54%, establishing a "Hispanic Majority." This shift resulted from a steady increase in the Hispanic population and a decline in other racial groups, particularly Asian and Black residents.
Recent data from 2022 indicates a slight reversal of this trend. The Hispanic population decreased to 43%, while the White population increased to 37%. This change has maintained the "Majority-Minority" status but moved the neighborhood closer to a "High Diversity" categorization, as no single group now exceeds 40% of the population.
The demographic shifts in Smith Hill have been accompanied by significant economic changes. The median income increased from $32,250 in 2013 to $56,822 in 2022, representing a 76% rise over nine years. This economic improvement coincides with the increasing Hispanic population and the recent uptick in White residents. The most dramatic increase in median income occurred between 2019 and 2020, rising from $43,912 to $56,021. This period also saw the Hispanic population reach its peak at 54%.
The demographic changes in Smith Hill reflect broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban areas. However, the significant Hispanic growth in this neighborhood outpaces national averages. The economic improvements in Smith Hill are notable, especially given the challenges faced by many urban neighborhoods during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The transition from "Moderate Diversity" to "Majority-Minority" status, and now potentially moving towards "High Diversity," suggests that Smith Hill is experiencing dynamic demographic changes. These changes could be influenced by factors such as immigration patterns, economic opportunities, or changes in housing affordability.
The substantial income growth in Smith Hill, particularly since 2019, may indicate gentrification pressures or improvements in local economic conditions. This trend could be contributing to the recent increase in the White population percentage, potentially signaling a new phase of demographic and economic transition for the neighborhood.
Smith Hill presents a case study of rapid demographic and economic change in an urban setting. The neighborhood's evolution from moderate diversity to a Hispanic-majority area, and now towards potentially high diversity, coupled with significant income growth, reflects the complex interplay of racial, ethnic, and economic factors shaping American urban landscapes in the 21st century.
