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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
South Brainerd, a neighborhood in Chattanooga, Tennessee, exhibits a demographic profile classified as "Moderate Diversity" as of 2022. The neighborhood has a white plurality (46%) with significant Hispanic (26%) and Black (16%) populations. South Brainerd's median income was $31,812 in 2022, reflecting fluctuations over the past decade. The neighborhood has a population of 3,945 as of 2022.
Over the past decade, South Brainerd has undergone a transformation in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood was categorized as having a "White Majority" with 57% of the population identifying as white. By 2022, this had shifted to a "Moderate Diversity" classification, with the white population decreasing to 46% and increases in Hispanic and Black populations.
The Hispanic population increased from 11% in 2013 to 26% in 2022, indicating a "Transitional Community" status. The Black population grew from 12% in 2013 to 16% in 2022. These changes led to the shift from a "White Majority" to a "Moderate Diversity" classification.
The median income in South Brainerd has shown volatility over the past decade. From 2013 to 2017, there was an increase from $30,931 to $42,737. This trend reversed after 2018, with median income dropping to $31,812 by 2022. The period of highest median income (2017-2018) coincides with the acceleration of demographic shifts, particularly the increase in the Hispanic population.
The demographic shifts observed in South Brainerd align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban areas. The growth of the Hispanic population reflects patterns seen in many U.S. cities over the past decade. The economic volatility experienced by South Brainerd, especially the sharp decline in median income after 2018, may be more pronounced than national averages.
The transition from a "White Majority" to "Moderate Diversity" status over a relatively short period is noteworthy and may indicate that South Brainerd is at the forefront of demographic changes in the broader Chattanooga area. This rapid shift could present both opportunities and challenges for community cohesion and local services adaptation.
South Brainerd exemplifies a neighborhood in transition, both demographically and economically. The increasing diversity, particularly driven by Hispanic population growth, has reshaped the community's composition. The concurrent economic fluctuations suggest that this transition has not been without challenges. As the neighborhood continues to evolve, addressing economic disparities and fostering inclusive community development will likely be key priorities for local stakeholders.