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Demographic Shifts in Hegewisch: From Moderate Diversity to Black Majority
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Hegewisch, a neighborhood in Chicago, Illinois, exhibits a demographic profile classified as a "Black Majority" community, with 50% of the population identifying as Black in 2022. The neighborhood has undergone significant demographic changes over the past decade, accompanied by fluctuations in median income. Hegewisch is situated on the far southeast side of Chicago, bordering Indiana, and is known for its industrial heritage.
Over the past decade, Hegewisch has experienced a notable transformation in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood was classified as having "Moderate Diversity," with Black (45%), Hispanic (31%), and White (20%) populations. By 2022, it transitioned to a "Black Majority" community, with the Black population reaching 50%. The Hispanic population decreased from 31% in 2013 to 26% in 2022, while the White population remained relatively stable between 20-25% throughout the decade.
The median income in Hegewisch showed considerable volatility from 2013 to 2022. There was an overall slight decrease from $48,296 to $45,194. This period was marked by significant fluctuations, with a peak of $53,328 in 2017 followed by a sharp decline to $44,041 in 2019. The transition towards a Black Majority coincided with periods of both increase and decrease in median income. The most significant rise in Black population percentage occurred alongside a substantial drop in median income.
Population trends indicate a gradual decline from 11,513 in 2013 to 10,427 in 2022, suggesting a slow but steady outmigration from the neighborhood. This population decrease, combined with the changing racial composition, may reflect broader socio-economic pressures affecting the community.
The trends observed in Hegewisch can be contextualized within broader urban demographic patterns. Many American cities have experienced similar shifts towards increased diversity or changes in racial majorities, often influenced by factors such as gentrification, economic restructuring, or changing immigration patterns.
The fluctuations in median income, particularly the sharp decline post-2017, may reflect wider economic trends such as the impact of industrial changes or shifts in the local job market. Hegewisch's location and industrial heritage might make it particularly susceptible to such economic shifts.
Hegewisch's evolution from a moderately diverse community to one with a Black majority, coupled with its economic fluctuations, indicates a neighborhood in transition. These changes have significant implications for community dynamics, local services, and future development plans. Understanding these trends is important for policymakers and community leaders in addressing the evolving needs of Hegewisch's residents and ensuring equitable development in the face of demographic and economic changes.
