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Demographic Shifts in West Riverside, New Orleans: From Moderate Diversity to White Majority (2013-2022)
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
West Riverside, a neighborhood in New Orleans, Louisiana, transitioned from a moderately diverse area to a White Majority community between 2013 and 2022. The median income increased from $68,528 to $82,673 during this period. The neighborhood is located near Audubon Park.
In 2013, West Riverside was categorized as a Moderate Diversity area, with 58% White and 26% Black populations. By 2022, the White population increased to 74%, while the Black population decreased to 13%. The Hispanic population fluctuated between 4-11% over the years. The Asian population increased slightly from 1% to 3% by 2022.
The demographic shifts correlate with changes in median income. As the White population percentage increased, the median income rose, reaching $98,111 in 2021 before decreasing to $82,673 in 2022. The population of West Riverside remained relatively stable between 4,900 and 5,200 residents until 2022, when it dropped to 4,477.
The demographic shifts in West Riverside align with broader trends seen in many urban areas across the United States, where historically diverse neighborhoods experience gentrification. The increase in median income (20.6% from 2013 to 2022) outpaces the national average income growth during this period, suggesting that West Riverside has become an increasingly affluent area within New Orleans.
The transition from Moderate Diversity to White Majority status, coupled with rising incomes, may have implications for local businesses, housing affordability, and community dynamics. These changes could potentially lead to displacement of long-term residents, particularly from minority groups.
West Riverside has undergone a transformation over the past decade, evolving from a moderately diverse community to a predominantly White, higher-income neighborhood. This shift reflects broader urban demographic trends and raises questions about equity, community preservation, and the changing face of New Orleans neighborhoods.
