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Demographic Evolution in Beltzhoover: A Study of Racial Composition and Economic Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Beltzhoover, a neighborhood in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, currently exhibits a specific demographic composition. As of 2022, it is classified as a "Racial Majority" community with a Black majority of 69%. The neighborhood's median income of $30,200 in 2022 is below the national average. Beltzhoover is characterized by steep streets and views of downtown Pittsburgh.
Over the past decade, Beltzhoover has experienced demographic changes. In 2013, it was categorized as "Racial Majority" with an 80% Black population. By 2018, it briefly transitioned to "Majority-Minority" status, with the Black population decreasing to 51% and other groups increasing. The community reverted to "Racial Majority" status by 2019, but with a more diverse composition than in previous years.
The Hispanic population in Beltzhoover has shown an upward trend, increasing from 2% in 2013 to 20% in 2022, indicating a potential evolution into a "Transitional Community." This trend suggests an influx of Hispanic residents, possibly due to changes in housing affordability or employment opportunities in the area.
The median income in Beltzhoover has fluctuated over the years, showing a general upward trend despite volatility. From $18,612 in 2015, it reached $38,452 in 2017 before settling at $30,200 in 2022. This overall increase in median income correlates with the demographic shifts, particularly the growth in Hispanic population and the temporary increase in racial diversity around 2017-2018.
The population of Beltzhoover has declined from 2,392 in 2010 to 1,715 in 2022, a decrease of about 28%. This population decline, combined with the changing racial composition and fluctuating income levels, indicates a period of transition in the neighborhood's socio-economic structure.
The demographic changes in Beltzhoover reflect broader trends seen in many urban neighborhoods across the United States. The increase in Hispanic population aligns with national trends of growing Hispanic communities in urban areas. The retention of a strong Black majority distinguishes Beltzhoover from many gentrifying urban neighborhoods that often see a significant influx of white residents.
The economic fluctuations in Beltzhoover, while showing overall improvement, still place the neighborhood below the median household income for Pittsburgh ($50,536 in 2021) and the United States ($69,021 in 2021). This indicates that while the neighborhood is experiencing demographic changes and some economic growth, it continues to face economic challenges compared to the broader urban and national contexts.
Beltzhoover exemplifies a neighborhood in transition, maintaining its identity as a predominantly Black community while becoming more diverse, particularly with the growth of its Hispanic population. These demographic shifts, coupled with modest economic improvements, demonstrate a community in flux, navigating the interplay of racial dynamics and economic opportunities in an evolving urban landscape.
