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Demographic Evolution of Edgefield: From Low Diversity to Transitional Community
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Edgefield neighborhood in Canton, Ohio, is experiencing a demographic transition from a low diversity community to a transitional community. In 2022, the neighborhood had a white majority of 72%, down from 87% in 2013. The median income in Edgefield decreased from $49,666 in 2013 to $37,980 in 2022. The neighborhood is known for its historic Victorian-era architecture.
Over the past decade, Edgefield has shown signs of increasing diversity. The black population increased from 5% to 14%, and the Hispanic population grew from less than 1% to 6% between 2013 and 2022. The category of "two or more races" doubled from 4% to 8% during this period, indicating a rise in multiracial families and individuals. Despite these changes, Edgefield maintains a white majority.
The demographic shifts in Edgefield correlate with changes in median income. The neighborhood experienced a 24% decrease in median income from 2013 to 2022. This economic downturn may have contributed to the demographic changes, potentially attracting more diverse, lower-income residents to the area. The population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 4,682 and 5,686 residents, suggesting a gradual replacement or integration of new residents rather than rapid expansion.
The trends observed in Edgefield mirror broader national patterns of increasing diversity in traditionally homogeneous communities. Many small to medium-sized cities across the Midwest have experienced similar demographic shifts, often accompanied by economic challenges as traditional industries decline.
The decrease in median income in Edgefield contrasts with national trends. While the U.S. median household income generally increased over the past decade, Edgefield's decline suggests local economic factors may be at play, such as the loss of major employers or industry shifts specific to Canton or the broader Ohio region.
The growth in the black and Hispanic populations in Edgefield, while significant for the neighborhood, is modest compared to more rapidly diversifying urban areas across the country. However, it represents a notable change for a community that was overwhelmingly white a decade ago.
Edgefield is undergoing a gradual but significant transformation from a low-diversity, economically stable neighborhood to a more diverse but economically challenged community. This transition reflects broader national trends of increasing diversity in smaller cities, often accompanied by economic restructuring. As Edgefield continues to evolve, it will be important to monitor how these demographic and economic changes impact the community's social fabric and its historic character, particularly in relation to its Victorian architectural heritage.
