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Demographic Shifts and Racial Composition in Westhill, Mobile: A Decade of Change
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Westhill, a neighborhood in Mobile, Alabama, currently exhibits a White Majority demographic composition with moderate diversity. As of 2022, the white population accounts for 58% of residents, while other racial groups, particularly Black (26%) and Asian (7%), contribute to a diverse community fabric. The median income in Westhill dropped to $33,390 in 2022, substantially below the peak of $47,598 seen in 2014. This neighborhood is known for its historic charm, featuring many mid-century homes and tree-lined streets that reflect its established character.
Over the past decade, Westhill has undergone a transition from a Low Diversity community to one of Moderate Diversity. In 2013, the neighborhood displayed a clear White Majority (70%) with limited representation from other groups. By 2022, while still maintaining a White Majority, the community has seen significant increases in its Black and Asian populations. The most notable shift occurred between 2021 and 2022, where the white population decreased from 65% to 58%, while the Black population increased from 21% to 26%. This rapid change suggests a potential trend towards becoming a Transitional Community.
The Hispanic population has fluctuated, peaking at 9% in 2018 but declining to 2% by 2022, indicating volatile migration patterns within this group. The demographic shifts in Westhill correlate strongly with changes in median income. As the community has become more diverse, there has been a significant decline in median income. From a peak of $47,598 in 2014, when the white population was at 68%, the median income has fallen to $33,390 in 2022, coinciding with the increased diversity.
This trend suggests that the neighborhood may be experiencing economic challenges that are either driving or resulting from these demographic changes. The influx of minority groups, particularly the increase in the Black population, has coincided with this economic downturn, potentially indicating disparities in economic opportunities or the effects of broader socioeconomic factors. Population figures have remained relatively stable over the decade, fluctuating between about 3,200 and 3,700 residents. This stability in population size, despite the demographic shifts, suggests that the changes are likely due to internal migration patterns rather than significant overall population growth or decline.
The trends observed in Westhill reflect broader patterns seen in many urban areas across the United States. The increasing diversity, particularly in previously predominantly white neighborhoods, is consistent with national demographic shifts. However, the correlation between increased diversity and declining median income is concerning and may indicate local economic challenges that are more pronounced than national averages. The dramatic decrease in median income (about 30% drop from 2014 to 2022) is more severe than typical national trends, indicating that Westhill may be facing particular economic hardships or undergoing a significant socioeconomic transformation that warrants further investigation.
Westhill's evolution from a Low Diversity to a Moderate Diversity community, coupled with significant economic challenges, paints a picture of a neighborhood in transition. These changes likely have profound implications for community cohesion, local services, and future development plans, necessitating careful consideration by local policymakers and community leaders.
