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Demographic Shifts in Western Heights: From White Majority to Increasing Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Western Heights, a neighborhood in Livonia, Michigan, is categorized as "Low Diversity" with a White Majority. As of 2022, the white population comprises 67% of the community, while the Black population has grown to 23%. The median income in 2022 was $79,771, indicating an upper-middle-class economic status. Western Heights is known for its well-maintained parks and recreational facilities, which have played a role in attracting a diverse range of new residents over the past decade.
Over the past decade, Western Heights has undergone a significant transformation in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood was characterized by an overwhelming White Majority (85%), with very low diversity. However, by 2022, while still maintaining a White Majority, the community has transitioned towards greater diversity. The white population decreased from 85% in 2013 to 67% in 2022. The Black population increased substantially from 7% in 2013 to 23% in 2022. The Asian and Hispanic populations remained relatively stable, with slight increases.
This shift suggests that Western Heights is in the process of becoming a Transitional Community, moving from Low Diversity towards Moderate Diversity. The consistent increase in the Black population and the gradual rise in other minority groups indicate a trend towards increasing diversity.
The demographic shifts in Western Heights correlate with significant changes in median income. Median income rose from $63,478 in 2013 to $79,771 in 2022, an increase of about 26%. A notable spike occurred in 2021, with median income reaching $89,153, before slightly decreasing in 2022. This upward trend in median income suggests that the neighborhood has become increasingly attractive to middle and upper-middle-class families across various racial backgrounds. The economic growth may have facilitated the demographic transition by making the area more accessible to a diverse range of homebuyers and renters.
The demographic changes in Western Heights reflect broader national trends of increasing diversity in suburban areas. Many U.S. suburbs have experienced similar transitions from predominantly white communities to more diverse neighborhoods over the past decade. However, the rate of change in Western Heights appears to be more rapid than the national average, particularly in terms of the growth of the Black population.
The economic trajectory of Western Heights also aligns with national trends of income growth in suburban areas, although the neighborhood's median income remains above the national median. This economic strength likely contributes to the area's ability to attract a more diverse population while maintaining its desirability as a residential location.
Western Heights is undergoing a significant demographic transformation, transitioning from a Low Diversity, White Majority community to one that is approaching Moderate Diversity. This shift, coupled with strong economic growth, suggests that the neighborhood is evolving into a more inclusive and economically vibrant area, reflecting broader national trends of suburban diversification and economic development.
