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Demographic Shifts in Settegast: From Black Majority to Increasing Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Settegast, a neighborhood in Houston, Texas, exhibits characteristics of a Low Diversity community with a Black Majority. As of 2022, the African American population constitutes 62% of the neighborhood, with Hispanic residents forming 36%. The area's median income is $26,978 in 2022. Settegast is one of Houston's oldest African American communities, established in the late 19th century.
Over the past decade, Settegast has transitioned from a clear Black Majority to a community approaching Moderate Diversity. In 2013, African Americans comprised 81% of the population. By 2022, this percentage decreased to 62%, while the Hispanic population increased from 17% to 36%. This shift suggests a Transitional Community status, with a trend towards increasing diversity.
The primary trigger for this demographic change appears to be an influx of Hispanic residents. Despite this shift, the community has maintained its Black Majority status throughout the period. The median income in Settegast has increased from $24,809 in 2013 to $26,978 in 2022. This growth has not kept pace with inflation, suggesting stagnant or declining real incomes.
The population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between about 3,000 to 3,500 residents throughout the period. This stability in population, coupled with changing demographics, suggests a gradual replacement of residents rather than a large influx of new inhabitants.
The demographic shifts in Settegast mirror broader trends seen in many urban areas across the United States, where historically African American neighborhoods are experiencing an increase in Hispanic populations. This trend is particularly noticeable in Southern states like Texas, where Hispanic immigration and internal migration have been significant factors in changing urban demographics.
Settegast's economic situation appears to be lagging behind national trends. While many urban areas have seen gentrification and rising incomes accompanying demographic shifts, Settegast's persistently low median income suggests that the neighborhood has not experienced significant economic revitalization despite its changing racial composition.
The neighborhood's transition towards greater diversity, while maintaining its historical African American majority, presents both opportunities and challenges. It reflects the evolving nature of urban communities in the United States, but also highlights the persistent economic disparities that often accompany such demographic changes.
