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Demographic Shifts in Downtown Tulsa: From Moderate Diversity to White Majority (2013-2022)
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma, exhibits a demographic composition classified as a "White Majority" community, with 62% of the population identifying as white in 2022. This urban area has experienced significant changes in racial composition and economic indicators over the past decade. Downtown Tulsa, known for its Art Deco architecture and as the city's business district center, has been undergoing revitalization efforts to attract more residents and businesses.
Over the past decade, Downtown Tulsa has maintained its "White Majority" status, but with notable changes. In 2013, the area was categorized as "Moderate Diversity," with the white population at 52% and significant representation from Black (24%) and Hispanic (10%) communities. The neighborhood briefly approached "High Diversity" status in 2014-2016, with no racial group exceeding 60% of the population and at least three groups having significant representation.
From 2017 onwards, there has been a gradual increase in the white population, solidifying its "White Majority" status. Concurrently, there has been a slight decline in the Black and Hispanic populations, while the Asian and multi-racial categories have seen modest growth. This shift suggests a possible gentrification trend, often associated with urban revitalization efforts.
The demographic shifts in Downtown Tulsa correlate with changes in median income. In 2013, when the area was more diverse, the median income was $26,859. As the white population increased, the median income rose, reaching $73,111 in 2022. This income growth (over 170% increase from 2013 to 2022) suggests an influx of higher-income residents, potentially driving the observed demographic changes.
The population has increased from 3,206 in 2010 to 4,167 in 2022, a 30% growth. This population increase, coupled with rising incomes, indicates successful urban renewal efforts attracting new residents to the downtown area.
The trends observed in Downtown Tulsa are similar to patterns seen in many urban centers across the United States, where downtown revitalization often leads to demographic shifts and increased property values. The rapid income growth and population increase in Downtown Tulsa outpace national averages, suggesting a particularly successful revitalization effort.
The decline in Black and Hispanic populations, despite overall population growth, may indicate that these communities are being priced out of the area. Downtown Tulsa has transitioned from a moderately diverse community to a more affluent, predominantly white neighborhood over the past decade. While this change has brought economic growth and urban renewal, it also presents challenges in maintaining diversity and affordability.
