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Demographic Shifts and Racial Composition in Downtown Peoria: A Black Majority Neighborhood
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Downtown Peoria, Illinois, has evolved into a Black Majority neighborhood with a median income of $17,225 as of 2022. Over the past decade, this urban core area has transitioned from a diverse composition to a predominantly Black community. The area is known for its riverfront development and historic architecture, which contrasts with its current socioeconomic challenges.
In 2013, Downtown Peoria was categorized as a Majority-Minority area, with Black residents comprising 54% of the population. By 2022, the neighborhood solidified its status as a Black Majority community, with the Black population reaching 57%. This shift indicates a trend of increasing racial homogeneity in the area. The White population has gradually declined from 33% in 2013 to 30% in 2022, while other racial groups have maintained relatively stable, but minor, representations.
The median income in Downtown Peoria has fluctuated over the past decade, with a general trend towards modest growth. Starting at $16,245 in 2013, it reached a peak of $17,925 in 2014 before declining to a low of $14,214 in 2016. Since then, there has been a gradual recovery, with the median income reaching $17,225 in 2022. This economic trajectory correlates with the demographic shifts, suggesting complex interactions between racial composition changes and economic factors.
Population figures have remained relatively stable over the decade, with some fluctuations. The population peaked at 3,643 in 2020 before declining to 2,940 in 2022. This recent decline could be attributed to various factors, including economic challenges or broader urban migration patterns.
The trends observed in Downtown Peoria reflect broader national patterns of urban demographic change, particularly in mid-sized Midwestern cities. Many such urban cores have experienced increasing racial homogeneity, often with growing Black or Hispanic populations, as White residents move to suburbs or other areas.
The median income in Downtown Peoria remains significantly below the national median household income, which was around $70,000 in 2022. This disparity highlights the economic challenges faced by this urban neighborhood and suggests a need for targeted economic development initiatives.
The neighborhood's demographic evolution, transitioning from a more diverse composition to a Black Majority, mirrors trends seen in other post-industrial Midwestern cities. However, the recent hints of Hispanic population growth could indicate the beginning of a new phase of diversity, potentially leading to a more multicultural urban core in the future.
Downtown Peoria's demographic and economic trends over the past decade reveal a complex interplay of racial dynamics and economic challenges. As the neighborhood continues to evolve, addressing economic disparities while fostering inclusivity will be crucial for its sustainable development and revitalization.
