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Demographic Shifts and Racial Composition in South Division, Orlando: A Study of Black Majority Transition
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The South Division neighborhood in Orlando, Florida, has undergone significant demographic changes over the past decade. In 2022, the neighborhood exhibited a Black Majority demographic composition, with 48% of the population identifying as Black. This represents a transition from a more diverse community to one with a clearer racial majority. The area has also experienced economic fluctuations, particularly in median income, which has shown notable increases in recent years. South Division's location near Orlando's downtown area and its mix of residential and commercial spaces contribute to its urban character.
From 2013 to 2022, South Division transitioned from a Moderate Diversity community to a Black Majority status. In 2013, the neighborhood had significant representation from Black (39%), White (38%), and Hispanic (17%) populations. By 2020, the Black population exceeded 50%, establishing a clear Black Majority. However, by 2022, this majority slightly decreased to 48%, representing a Black Plurality. The shift was characterized by a steady increase in the Black population percentage and a decline in the White population from 38% in 2013 to 26% in 2022. The Hispanic population remained relatively stable between 15-20% throughout the decade.
The neighborhood has also shown signs of being a Transitional Community. The percentage of residents identifying as two or more races increased from 1% in 2013 to 6% in 2022, indicating a trend towards increasing diversity in certain aspects. The median income in South Division has shown considerable volatility over the past decade. From 2013 to 2019, there was a general downward trend, with median income decreasing from $42,879 to $39,925. However, 2020 saw an increase to $63,312, followed by a decline in 2021 to $42,865, and another rise in 2022 to $62,593.
These economic fluctuations appear to coincide with demographic shifts. The period of declining income (2013-2019) corresponds with the transition towards a Black Majority. The sudden income spike in 2020 aligns with the solidification of the Black Majority status, suggesting potential gentrification or economic development initiatives in the area. The population has grown steadily from 1,237 in 2010 to 2,109 in 2022, indicating increasing attractiveness or development in the neighborhood. This population growth, combined with recent income increases, suggests a possible influx of higher-income residents, which may be contributing to the neighborhood's economic transformation.
The demographic shifts observed in South Division reflect broader trends seen in many urban areas across the United States, where historically diverse neighborhoods often experience changes in racial composition due to factors such as gentrification, migration patterns, and economic development. The income volatility, particularly the sharp increases in recent years, may be indicative of rapid urban development or revitalization efforts in Orlando. The growth in the population identifying as two or more races aligns with national trends, as the multiracial population in the U.S. has been one of the fastest-growing demographic groups in recent years.
South Division appears to be a neighborhood in transition, both demographically and economically. While it has shifted towards a Black Majority/Plurality status, recent economic and population trends suggest ongoing changes that may continue to shape the neighborhood's character in the coming years.
