Loading Content...
Demographic Shifts and Racial Composition in East Jacksonville: A Transitional Community Study
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
East Jacksonville, a neighborhood in Jacksonville, Florida, is predominantly a Black Majority community with a median income of $36,067 as of 2022. The neighborhood has exhibited characteristics of a Transitional Community over the past decade, with notable changes in its racial composition and economic indicators. East Jacksonville has historical significance in Jacksonville's African American culture and has been subject to various urban renewal initiatives in recent years.
From 2013 to 2022, East Jacksonville has maintained its status as a Black Majority community, but with significant changes. In 2013, the neighborhood had Low Diversity, with the Black population comprising 90% of residents. By 2020-2021, the community transitioned to Moderate Diversity, with the White population increasing to 27-30% while the Black population decreased to 67-70%. In 2022, there was a slight reversal, with the Black population increasing to 72% and the White population decreasing to 22%, but still maintaining Moderate Diversity compared to earlier years.
The demographic shifts correlate with changes in median income. From 2013 to 2019, median income showed modest growth from $16,572 to $25,620, coinciding with a period of relative stability in racial composition. A significant increase occurred between 2019 and 2020, with median income rising to $32,205. This coincides with the period of increased racial diversity. Despite a decrease in 2021, the median income increased to $36,067 in 2022, the highest in the observed period.
The population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between approximately 1,800 and 2,300 residents over the decade. The recent population increase from 1,878 in 2018 to 2,239 in 2022 coincides with the period of increased income and diversity.
The trends observed in East Jacksonville reflect broader national patterns of increasing diversity in urban neighborhoods, often associated with gentrification processes. The significant increase in median income, particularly from 2019 to 2022, exceeds national averages and may indicate targeted economic development efforts or changing neighborhood dynamics.
The maintenance of a Black Majority despite increased diversity is notable and may reflect the strong cultural roots of the African American community in East Jacksonville. This differs from some urban areas where rapid gentrification has led to displacement of long-term residents.
The economic improvements, while positive, should be considered in context. Even with the substantial increase, the 2022 median income of $36,067 remains below the national median, indicating ongoing economic challenges for many residents.
East Jacksonville demonstrates characteristics of a Transitional Community, showing increased racial diversity and economic growth over the past decade. These changes suggest a neighborhood in flux, potentially benefiting from urban renewal efforts while maintaining its core identity as a historically Black community. The coming years will be crucial in determining whether these trends lead to sustainable, inclusive growth or potential challenges related to gentrification and community cohesion.
