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Demographic Shifts in Eastridge: Black Majority and Income Stagnation
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Eastridge neighborhood in Midwest City, Oklahoma, has experienced a significant demographic shift from 2013 to 2022. In 2022, the Black population comprised 73% of residents, indicating a "Racial Majority" status. This represents a change from the "Moderate Diversity" observed in 2013, where the population was more evenly distributed between White (42%) and Black (38%) residents. The neighborhood's median income was $30,914 in 2022, below the national median. Eastridge's proximity to Tinker Air Force Base likely influences its population dynamics and economic conditions.
The transition to a Black majority occurred gradually over the decade. Around 2015-2016, the neighborhood shifted from "Moderate Diversity" to a "Black Plurality" as the Black population exceeded 50%. This trend continued, resulting in the current "Racial Majority" status. The shift may be attributed to various factors, including changes in housing policies, economic opportunities, or broader social trends affecting Midwest City.
Eastridge's median income has fluctuated significantly over the years without a clear trend. In 2013, the median income was $30,359, and in 2022 it was $30,914, showing minimal overall growth. Notable fluctuations occurred, with the lowest point in 2015 at $18,771 and the highest in 2014 at $32,982. The demographic shift did not correspond with consistent changes in median income, suggesting that the changes were not primarily driven by economic factors within the neighborhood itself.
The population of Eastridge has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 300 and 400 residents over the decade. A slight decrease occurred in 2020, possibly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by a recovery. The stability in population combined with the significant racial shift suggests that the changes were more likely due to in-migration and out-migration rather than natural population growth.
The trend observed in Eastridge, with an increasing Black majority, differs from national trends where many urban areas are experiencing increased diversity or gentrification. The neighborhood's proximity to Tinker Air Force Base may influence these unique demographic patterns due to the transient nature of military personnel and the economic opportunities they create.
Eastridge's median income remains significantly below the national median, which was around $70,000 in 2022. This indicates that the neighborhood faces economic challenges despite its proximity to a major employer like the Air Force base. It suggests that many residents may be employed in lower-wage service jobs rather than directly benefiting from higher-paying positions associated with the base.
In conclusion, Eastridge presents a case of rapid demographic transition to a Black majority status without corresponding significant changes in economic indicators. This pattern warrants further investigation into local policies, housing trends, and community dynamics to understand the forces driving these changes and their implications for the neighborhood's future.
