Loading Content...
Demographic Shift in Wildwood: From Moderate Diversity to Black Majority (2013-2022)
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Wildwood neighborhood in Charlotte, North Carolina, has experienced a significant demographic shift over the past decade. In 2022, the neighborhood exhibited a Black Majority demographic composition, with 67% of the population identifying as Black. This represents a substantial change from previous years. The area's median income was $56,102 in 2022, reflecting economic fluctuations over the decade. Wildwood's proximity to Charlotte Douglas International Airport is a notable feature that may influence its demographic and economic dynamics.
From 2013 to 2022, Wildwood underwent a transformation in its racial composition. In 2013, it was categorized as a Majority-Minority community, with Black residents comprising 51% of the population, followed by White (25%) and Hispanic (23%) residents. By 2018, it had transitioned to a Moderate Diversity classification, with White residents becoming the plurality at 55%, while Black residents decreased to 30%.
The most dramatic shift occurred between 2018 and 2022. During this period, Wildwood transitioned from Moderate Diversity to a clear Black Majority. The percentage of Black residents increased from 30% in 2018 to 67% in 2022, while the White population declined from 55% to 26%. This rapid change suggests a significant influx of Black residents and/or outmigration of White residents.
Wildwood's median income has fluctuated over the past decade. In 2013, it stood at $62,156, then dropped to $44,484 in 2014. It rebounded to $63,573 in 2015 but has since shown overall volatility. The 2022 figure of $56,102 represents a decrease from the peak of $68,418 in 2021. The shift towards a Black Majority coincided with periods of both income growth and decline, suggesting that demographic changes were not consistently correlated with economic trends.
The demographic shift in Wildwood reflects broader trends of changing racial composition in many urban areas across the United States. The speed and extent of the change from a Moderate Diversity community to a Black Majority within four years is particularly notable. The economic fluctuations in Wildwood may be partly attributed to its proximity to the Charlotte Douglas International Airport. The airport's expansion and associated economic activities could be influencing local job markets and property values, contributing to the observed income volatility.
Wildwood has undergone a significant demographic transformation over the past decade, transitioning from a Majority-Minority community to a Black Majority neighborhood. This change has occurred against a backdrop of economic fluctuations, highlighting the complex interplay between racial demographics and economic factors in urban neighborhoods. The rapid nature of this shift suggests that Wildwood may be experiencing unique local factors driving these changes, possibly related to its location near a major transportation hub.
