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Demographic Shift and Racial Composition in Lexington Cemetery Neighborhood: A Black Majority Community
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Lexington Cemetery neighborhood in Lexington-Fayette, Kentucky, exhibits a distinct demographic profile as of 2022. The population stands at 1,841 with an estimated 705 housing units. This community is classified as a "Black Majority" area, with 78% of residents identifying as Black. The neighborhood's median income in 2022 is $28,625, which is low compared to national averages, indicating economic challenges. The neighborhood's name, "Lexington Cemetery," suggests the presence of a significant historical landmark that may influence the area's character and development.
Over the past decade, the Lexington Cemetery neighborhood has experienced a significant demographic transition. In 2013, the area was categorized as having "Moderate Diversity," with a Black population of 67%, a White population of 12%, and a Hispanic population of 21%. By 2022, it had consolidated its status as a "Black Majority" area, with the Black population increasing to 78% while other racial groups decreased in representation.
This shift towards a more homogeneous racial composition may be attributed to various factors, such as changing housing patterns, economic opportunities, or cultural preferences. The steady increase in the Black population percentage indicates a trend of concentration rather than diversification.
The economic trajectory of the neighborhood demonstrates a complex pattern. From 2013 to 2016, there was a substantial decline in median income from $26,429 to $18,035, indicating a period of economic hardship. However, from 2017 onwards, there has been a gradual but consistent increase in median income, reaching $28,625 in 2022.
This economic recovery coincides with the solidification of the Black majority in the neighborhood. It is possible that as the community became more homogeneous, it may have developed stronger internal support systems or attracted targeted economic development initiatives, contributing to the income growth.
Population figures have shown an overall increasing trend, growing from 1,450 in 2013 to 1,841 in 2022, with some fluctuations. This population growth, coupled with the increasing median income, suggests a growing attractiveness of the neighborhood, possibly due to affordability or cultural factors.
The trend towards increased racial homogeneity in this neighborhood contrasts with many urban areas across the United States, which have often seen increasing diversity over the past decade. The low median income, even at its 2022 peak, likely places this neighborhood below both state and national averages, indicating persistent economic challenges despite recent improvements.
The name "Lexington Cemetery" suggests this neighborhood may be adjacent to or include a significant historical site. Such proximity could influence property values, development patterns, and the type of residents attracted to the area. It may also contribute to the stability of the neighborhood's demographics, as historical areas often see less rapid change than other urban neighborhoods.
In conclusion, the Lexington Cemetery neighborhood has transformed over the past decade from a moderately diverse community to one with a strong Black majority, accompanied by gradual economic improvement. This transformation highlights the complex interplay between racial demographics, economic conditions, and potentially unique local factors such as historical landmarks in shaping the character and trajectory of urban neighborhoods.
