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Demographic Shifts in Highland Terrace: From Black Majority to Increasing Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Highland Terrace in Richmond, Virginia, is categorized as a "Black Majority" neighborhood, with 75% of the population identifying as Black in 2022. The neighborhood has transitioned from "Low Diversity" to "Moderate Diversity" over the past decade. Highland Terrace's median income increased from $19,761 in 2013 to $34,251 in 2022, indicating gradual economic improvement. The neighborhood has historical significance in Richmond's African American community, with roots dating back to the post-Civil War era.
From 2013 to 2020, Highland Terrace maintained its status as a "Black Majority" neighborhood with "Low Diversity," with the Black population consistently above 90%. A significant shift began in 2021, marking the neighborhood's transition towards "Moderate Diversity." The percentage of Black residents decreased from 91% in 2020 to 75% in 2022, while other racial groups, particularly Asian and White populations, increased. This change suggests Highland Terrace is becoming a "Transitional Community," moving away from its historical demographic homogeneity.
The demographic shifts in Highland Terrace correlate with significant economic changes. From 2013 to 2022, median income increased by approximately 73%, from $19,761 to $34,251. The population grew from 723 in 2013 to 879 in 2022, a 21.6% increase. The rise in median income coincides with the increase in racial diversity, suggesting that the influx of new residents may be contributing to the neighborhood's economic uplift.
Highland Terrace's changes can be contextualized within broader national trends. Many U.S. cities have experienced similar patterns of diversification in historically Black neighborhoods, often accompanied by rising incomes and property values. The significant increase in median income in Highland Terrace may be part of a broader trend of income gap reduction between predominantly Black neighborhoods and city averages, observed in some U.S. metropolitan areas. The shift towards greater diversity in Highland Terrace aligns with national trends of increasing racial integration in urban areas, particularly in cities with growing economies.
Highland Terrace exemplifies a neighborhood in transition, moving from a historically Black, low-diversity area to a more economically prosperous and racially diverse community. This transition presents both opportunities and challenges, potentially improving economic conditions while also raising concerns about maintaining the neighborhood's historical character and preventing displacement of long-term residents. The changes in Highland Terrace reflect broader urban demographic shifts occurring across the United States, highlighting the complex interplay between racial composition, economic development, and community dynamics in evolving urban landscapes.
