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Demographic Evolution of Martin-Hickman Neighborhood: From White Majority to Black Plurality
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Martin-Hickman neighborhood in Des Moines, Iowa, has undergone significant demographic changes from 2013 to 2022. In 2013, the area was classified as a "White Majority" community with white residents comprising 45% of the population. By 2022, it transitioned to a "Black Plurality" status, with African Americans making up 44% of the population. The neighborhood now exhibits "Moderate Diversity" with significant representation from white (30%) and Hispanic (12%) residents.
The demographic shift in Martin-Hickman reflects a "Transitional Community" scenario. The Hispanic population has remained relatively stable, around 20-25% for most of the decade. The Asian population has shown notable fluctuations, peaking at 26% in 2020 before declining to 7% in 2022. This volatility suggests possible short-term migration patterns or data anomalies.
Economically, the neighborhood has experienced considerable variability. From 2013 to 2020, there was a general upward trend in median income, rising from $56,382 to $72,915. This coincided with the gradual increase in the Black population and decrease in the White population. In 2021, there was a significant drop in median income to $46,809, followed by a recovery to $72,915 in 2022. These fluctuations may be related to the COVID-19 pandemic's economic impact and subsequent recovery.
The population of Martin-Hickman has remained relatively small, fluctuating between 156 and 264 residents over the decade. The recent increase in population from 196 in 2020 to 264 in 2022 coincides with the shift towards a Black plurality, suggesting possible in-migration of African American residents.
The demographic evolution of Martin-Hickman reflects 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. The economic fluctuations observed in Martin-Hickman, particularly around 2021-2022, mirror national patterns related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The neighborhood's small population size makes it particularly susceptible to rapid demographic changes, as even small shifts in absolute numbers can result in significant percentage changes. This sensitivity to change is an important factor when analyzing trends in Martin-Hickman compared to larger urban areas.
The Martin-Hickman neighborhood exemplifies the dynamic nature of urban demographics and economics. Its transition from a White Majority to a Black Plurality community, coupled with significant income fluctuations, underscores the complex interplay between racial composition and economic factors in small urban neighborhoods. These changes likely have implications for local community dynamics, service needs, and cultural identity.
