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Demographic Shifts in Oklahoma City's Central Business District: A Trend Towards Low Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Central Business District of Oklahoma City exhibits a distinct demographic profile as of 2022. It is classified as a "Low Diversity" area with a White Majority (83%). The neighborhood has experienced substantial population growth, increasing from 116 residents in 2012 to 259 in 2022. Despite its central location, the area maintains a relatively small population, indicating it may primarily serve as a commercial district with limited residential development.
The neighborhood has undergone a significant transition in its racial composition over the past decade. In 2013, it was categorized as having "Moderate Diversity," with a White majority (69%) and notable Asian (5%), Black (6%), and Native American (9%) populations. By 2022, the area had shifted to "Low Diversity" status, with the White population increasing to 83% and most other racial groups declining in representation.
The median income in the Central Business District has fluctuated over the years, showing an overall upward trend. It increased from $40,229 in 2013 to $45,184 in 2022, representing a 12.3% increase over the decade, despite year-to-year volatility.
The economic changes correlate with the demographic shifts. As the neighborhood became less diverse and the White majority increased, there was a general trend towards higher median incomes. This suggests that the area is attracting more affluent residents, possibly as part of urban renewal or downtown revitalization efforts.
The demographic trends in Oklahoma City's Central Business District diverge from national patterns, where many urban cores are experiencing increasing diversity. The sharp increase in the White population percentage, coupled with rising incomes, may indicate a localized gentrification process.
The population growth in this neighborhood is notable, with a 123% increase from 2012 to 2022. This outpaces the overall growth rate of Oklahoma City, which grew by about 12% between 2010 and 2020 according to U.S. Census data. This suggests that the Central Business District is undergoing a significant transformation, possibly due to targeted urban development initiatives.
The median income growth, while positive, has not kept pace with national trends. The U.S. median household income grew by about 18% between 2013 and 2022, compared to the 12.3% growth seen in this neighborhood. This indicates that while the area is attracting more affluent residents, it may still be catching up to broader economic trends.
Oklahoma City's Central Business District has undergone a significant demographic and economic transformation over the past decade. The shift towards lower diversity and higher incomes, coupled with substantial population growth, suggests a neighborhood in transition, likely influenced by urban renewal efforts and changing preferences for downtown living among more affluent, predominantly White residents.
