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Demographic Shifts in Old Erie: From Black Majority to White Majority (2013-2022)
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Old Erie, a neighborhood in Evansville, Indiana, exhibits a demographic profile categorized as "Low Diversity" with a White Majority as of 2022. The white population comprises 65% of the neighborhood. The median income in 2022 was $23,649. Old Erie has undergone significant demographic changes over the past decade, transitioning from a predominantly Black neighborhood to its current state.
Over the past decade, Old Erie has experienced a transformation in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood had a "Black Majority," with 64% of the population being Black. By 2022, this had shifted to a "White Majority" with 65% of the population being White. This transition represents a reversal in the neighborhood's racial makeup.
The community transitioned through several categories during this period: Black Majority from 2013-2017 (peak of 66% in 2017), Moderate Diversity from 2018-2019 (no clear majority, with significant Black and White populations), and White Majority from 2020-2022 (reaching 65% in 2022).
The demographic shifts correlate with changes in median income. In 2013, the median income was $15,185 (Black Majority). In 2018, it was $17,130 (Moderate Diversity). In 2022, it reached $23,649 (White Majority). There is an upward trend in median income as the racial composition shifted. This suggests that the influx of white residents may be associated with higher-income individuals moving into the area.
Population figures have remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 500-600 residents throughout the decade. This stability in population size, combined with the significant racial shift, suggests a gradual replacement of one demographic group with another rather than a large-scale influx or exodus.
The increase in median income from $15,185 in 2013 to $23,649 in 2022 represents a growth of about 56% over nine years. This outpaces the national inflation rate for the same period, suggesting real economic growth in the neighborhood. However, the 2022 median income remains below the national median household income, which was around $70,000 in 2021.
This demographic and economic shift in Old Erie presents an example of urban renewal and gentrification trends seen in many American cities. It raises questions about housing affordability, community displacement, and the changing character of long-established neighborhoods. The challenge for local policymakers will be to manage this transition in a way that benefits both new and long-term residents, preserving community cohesion while embracing economic development.
