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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Heights neighborhood in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, has transitioned from a predominantly white area to a moderately diverse community over the past decade. As of 2022, the white population comprises 52% of residents, while Hispanic and Black populations represent 23% and 11% respectively. This demographic composition classifies The Heights as a Moderate Diversity community with a slight White Plurality. The neighborhood has experienced significant changes in its racial makeup since 2013, when it was categorized as having a White Majority with 67% of the population identifying as white.
The most notable shift occurred between 2017 and 2018, when the white population decreased from 66% to 58%, moving the neighborhood from a White Majority to a White Plurality and Majority-Minority status. The Hispanic population has shown consistent growth, increasing from 10% in 2013 to 23% in 2022. Similarly, the Asian population increased from 1% to 8% during the same period. These changes suggest that The Heights has become an increasingly attractive destination for diverse immigrant communities.
Despite significant demographic shifts, the neighborhood's median income has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between $34,000 and $40,000 over the past decade. The median income increased slightly from $34,218 in 2013 to $37,259 in 2022. This economic stability suggests that incoming diverse populations are likely filling similar economic roles as previous residents. The population of The Heights has also increased from 4,450 in 2013 to 5,115 in 2022, indicating growth in the neighborhood's attractiveness or housing capacity.
The demographic changes observed in The Heights reflect broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban areas, particularly in smaller cities and towns. Many rust belt cities like Wilkes-Barre have experienced similar transitions as they attract new immigrant populations seeking affordable housing and employment opportunities. The stability in median income, despite significant demographic changes, is notable and may indicate that The Heights has maintained its economic base while becoming more diverse.
The Heights exemplifies a neighborhood in transition, moving from a Low Diversity, White Majority community to a Moderate Diversity, Majority-Minority area over the past decade. This transition has been marked by significant growth in Hispanic and Asian populations, while maintaining relatively stable economic indicators. These changes suggest a neighborhood that is evolving to reflect broader demographic trends while preserving its economic character.