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Demographic Shifts in Crestwood South: A Study of Racial Composition Changes
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Crestwood South, a neighborhood in Birmingham, Alabama, has a population of 3,230 and a median income of $85,983 as of 2022. The area is characterized by low diversity with a strong white majority. Crestwood South is part of Birmingham's over-the-mountain suburbs, which have historically been more affluent and predominantly white compared to the city center.
Over the past decade, Crestwood South has transitioned from a moderate diversity community to one of low diversity. In 2013, the neighborhood had a white majority of 70% with a significant black population of 24%. By 2022, it had become a low diversity area with a white population of 87% and a black population of 10%.
This shift represents a trend of decreasing racial diversity, with the white population increasing while other racial groups, particularly African Americans, have declined. The Hispanic population, which peaked at 3% in 2018-2019, has decreased to nearly zero by 2022.
Crestwood South has experienced significant economic growth alongside this demographic shift. The median income has risen from $64,874 in 2013 to $85,983 in 2022, a 32.5% increase over nine years. This economic uplift correlates with the increasing white majority and decreasing diversity in the neighborhood.
The population has remained relatively stable over this period, fluctuating between about 3,100 and 3,400 residents. This suggests that the demographic changes are likely due to out-migration of minority groups and in-migration of white residents, rather than significant overall population growth.
The trends observed in Crestwood South reflect broader patterns of gentrification and demographic shifts seen in many urban areas across the United States. The increasing median income and decreasing racial diversity often coincide in neighborhoods experiencing economic revitalization or gentrification.
This trend contrasts with the overall demographic shifts in Birmingham and many other major cities, which have generally been moving towards greater diversity. Birmingham as a whole has a majority-black population, making Crestwood South's shift towards a stronger white majority notable.
The economic growth in Crestwood South outpaces the average income growth in Alabama and the nation, indicating that this neighborhood is becoming increasingly affluent relative to its surroundings. This could potentially lead to increased housing costs and further demographic shifts in the future.
Crestwood South presents a case of a neighborhood transitioning towards lower diversity and higher affluence, contrasting with broader trends towards increased diversity in urban areas. This shift raises questions about housing affordability, community cohesion, and the long-term social and economic impacts of such demographic changes on the broader Birmingham area.
