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Demographic Shifts and Racial Composition in St. Louis' Central West End
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Central West End neighborhood in St. Louis, Missouri, demonstrates a White Majority demographic composition, with 60% of the population identifying as white in 2022. The area exhibits Moderate Diversity, with Asian (16%) and Black (18%) populations representing significant portions. The neighborhood's median income was $50,591 in 2022. The Central West End is characterized by historic architecture, cultural institutions, and proximity to Washington University Medical Center.
Over the past decade, the Central West End has experienced changes in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood had a White Majority (58%) with Moderate Diversity, including Black (26%) and Asian (11%) populations. By 2022, the white population increased to 60%, the Black population decreased to 18%, and the Asian population increased to 16%. This shift indicates a trend towards a more balanced racial distribution, although not reaching the threshold for High Diversity.
The median income in the Central West End has shown an overall upward trend with fluctuations. In 2013, it was $37,697. It increased to $47,511 in 2017, further rose to $56,682 in 2021, and then decreased to $50,591 in 2022. This represents a 34% increase from 2013 to 2022. The population has remained relatively stable, growing from 13,750 in 2013 to 14,340 in 2022, a 4.3% increase.
The trends observed in the Central West End reflect patterns seen in many urban neighborhoods across the United States. The increase in racial diversity, particularly the growth of the Asian population, aligns with national trends. The decline in the Black population percentage, coupled with rising median incomes, is similar to gentrification patterns observed in other major cities.
The economic growth in the Central West End outpaces the national median household income growth rate. While the U.S. median household income grew by about 18% from 2013 to 2021 (adjusted for inflation), the Central West End saw a 50% increase in the same period. This suggests that the neighborhood is experiencing more rapid economic changes than the national average.
The Central West End exemplifies a Transitional Community, moving towards greater diversity while maintaining a White Majority. The economic and demographic shifts indicate a neighborhood in flux, balancing economic growth with challenges of maintaining affordability and inclusivity for long-term residents.
