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Demographic Shifts in Bessemer, Alabama: A Study of Black Majority and Racial Composition
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Bessemer, Alabama, is classified as a "Racial Majority" community. As of 2022, the Black population comprises 63% of the city's residents, making it a Black Majority community. The city has a population of 42,922 and a median income of $57,613, showing modest growth and economic improvement over the past decade.
From 2013 to 2022, Bessemer maintained its Black Majority status, with the Black population percentage increasing from 60% to 63%. The White population decreased from 34% to 27% during this period. The Hispanic population grew from 3% to 6%, and the multiracial category increased from 0% to 2%.
The median income in Bessemer increased from $51,790 in 2013 to $57,613 in 2022, representing an 11.2% growth. The city's population grew by about 8.7% from 39,504 in 2013 to 42,922 in 2022. This economic growth occurred alongside the consolidation of the Black majority and the gradual increase in Hispanic and multiracial populations.
Bessemer's demographic trends align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in urban areas. The growth in Hispanic and multiracial populations reflects national trends, though at a slower pace than many larger metropolitan areas. The city's economic growth, while positive, appears modest compared to national averages.
Based on observed trends, Bessemer is likely to maintain its status as a Black Majority community in the near future. The consistent growth of the Hispanic population and the increase in multiracial residents suggest a gradual transition towards greater diversity. If current trends continue, Bessemer could evolve into a "Moderate Diversity" category within the next 10-15 years.
This transition would be characterized by a Black majority of around 60-65%, a Hispanic population of 10-12%, and a multiracial presence of 3-5%. The White population may continue to decrease but likely stabilize around 20-25%. Economically, if the city maintains its current growth trajectory, the median income could potentially reach or surpass $65,000 by 2030.
