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Demographic Shifts and Racial Composition in Kendall-Whittier: A Study of Neighborhood Transformation
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Kendall-Whittier neighborhood in Tulsa, Oklahoma, has undergone significant demographic changes from 2013 to 2022. As of 2022, the neighborhood has a population of 5,731 and a median income of $35,009. The area has transitioned from a community with Moderate Diversity to a Majority-Minority community.
Over the past decade, Kendall-Whittier has experienced a notable transformation in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood had Moderate Diversity, with a white plurality of 42%. By 2022, it had become a Majority-Minority community. This shift is primarily attributed to the growth of the Hispanic population, which increased from 38% in 2013 to 39% in 2022, and the Native American population, which grew from 4% to 11% during the same period.
The white population decreased from 42% to 39% over this timeframe, losing its plurality status. The Black population remained relatively stable, decreasing slightly from 9% to 5%. This evolution reflects a Transitional Community, with increasing representation from Hispanic and Native American groups.
The demographic shifts in Kendall-Whittier correlate with changes in median income. From 2013 to 2022, the median income increased from $26,587 to $35,009, representing a 31.7% growth. This economic improvement coincided with the neighborhood's transition to a Majority-Minority status. The population slightly decreased from 6,473 in 2013 to 5,731 in 2022.
The demographic changes in Kendall-Whittier align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban areas. Many cities across the United States have seen growth in Hispanic and multiracial populations over the past decade. The increase in the Native American population from 4% to 11% is particularly notable.
The economic growth in Kendall-Whittier, while substantial, still places the neighborhood below the national median household income, which was around $70,784 in 2021. This suggests that while the area has made strides, there is still room for economic development.
The transformation of Kendall-Whittier into a Majority-Minority community with improving economic indicators reflects a pattern of urban revitalization often seen in transitioning neighborhoods. The challenge moving forward will be to ensure that this development benefits all residents and maintains the area's cultural character while addressing potential issues of gentrification and displacement.
