Loading Content...
Demographic Shifts in Old Norwood Park: A Study of Racial Composition and Income Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Old Norwood Park, a neighborhood in Chicago, Illinois, is classified as a "White Majority" community with a median income of $108,280 as of 2022. The white population comprises 67% of the total, exceeding the 50% threshold for a racial majority. The neighborhood is characterized by historic charm, featuring older homes and tree-lined streets.
Over the past decade, Old Norwood Park has experienced a subtle but notable demographic transition. In 2013, the neighborhood was categorized as "Low Diversity," with the white population at 80%. By 2022, while still maintaining a "White Majority," the community has shifted towards increased diversity. This change is primarily driven by growth in the Hispanic population, which increased from 12% in 2013 to 22% in 2022, along with slight increases in Asian and Black populations.
The neighborhood shows signs of becoming a "Transitional Community," particularly with the consistent growth of the Hispanic population and an increase in residents identifying as two or more races. This trend suggests a gradual move towards greater diversity, although it has not yet reached the threshold for "Moderate Diversity" or "High Diversity" categorization.
The median income in Old Norwood Park has fluctuated over the decade but has generally remained high. It peaked at $112,366 in 2013 and stood at $108,280 in 2022. This relatively stable and high income level suggests that the neighborhood has maintained its economic status despite demographic changes. As the community has become slightly more diverse, there has not been a significant negative impact on median income. This could indicate that the incoming diverse populations are of similar socioeconomic status to the existing residents.
The population has shown a slight overall decline from 4,060 in 2013 to 3,436 in 2022. This decrease, coupled with the maintained high income levels, might suggest a trend towards smaller, potentially more affluent households.
The gradual diversification of Old Norwood Park aligns with broader trends seen in many urban areas across the United States, where traditionally homogeneous neighborhoods are experiencing increased racial and ethnic diversity. However, the pace of change in Old Norwood Park appears to be slower than in many other urban neighborhoods. The maintained high median income in Old Norwood Park contrasts with national trends, where increasing diversity often correlates with more varied income levels.
Old Norwood Park represents a community in subtle transition. While still categorized as a "White Majority" area, it shows signs of evolving towards greater diversity, while maintaining its economic status. This gradual change may present both opportunities and challenges for community cohesion and local identity in the coming years.
