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Demographic Shifts in Wildwood North: From Moderate Diversity to Black Majority
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Wildwood North, a neighborhood in Jackson, Mississippi, has experienced a significant demographic transition from 2013 to 2022. The area shifted from a moderately diverse composition to a predominantly Black community. In 2022, the Black population constituted 68% of the neighborhood, compared to 54% in 2013. The median income in 2022 was $47,815, slightly below the national median income.
The neighborhood's racial composition changed gradually over the decade. In 2013, Wildwood North had a more balanced racial mix with 54% Black and 41% White populations. By 2022, the Black majority increased to 68%, solidifying the area's status as a "Racial Majority" community. The Hispanic population, though small, showed a slight increase, potentially indicating the beginnings of a "Transitional Community" status.
The demographic shifts correlated with changes in median income. In 2013, when the neighborhood had greater racial balance, the median income was $48,410. There was some fluctuation in subsequent years, with a notable dip to $40,073 in 2017 when the Black population reached 47%. However, the income rebounded to $47,815 in 2022, nearly returning to its 2013 level despite the significant change in racial composition.
The population of Wildwood North grew significantly from 644 in 2013 to 1,053 in 2022, an increase of about 63%. This population growth, coupled with the shift towards a Black majority, suggests that the neighborhood has become increasingly attractive to Black residents, possibly due to factors such as community cohesion, cultural amenities, or housing affordability.
The demographic evolution of Wildwood North reflects broader trends seen in many urban areas across the United States, where neighborhoods often experience racial transitions over time. The increase in the Black population percentage is particularly noteworthy given that Jackson itself has a significant Black population, often referred to as a majority-Black city.
The economic resilience of the neighborhood, maintaining a relatively stable median income despite demographic shifts, is notable. However, the median income still lags behind the national average, which was around $70,784 in 2021. This gap highlights the ongoing economic challenges faced by many predominantly Black communities in the United States.
The population growth in Wildwood North contrasts with some national trends of urban population decline, suggesting that the neighborhood may offer attractive features or opportunities that are drawing new residents, particularly within the Black community. This growth could be indicative of a revitalization process or changing perceptions of the neighborhood's desirability.
Wildwood North's transition to a Black majority community, coupled with population growth and relative income stability, indicates a neighborhood in transition. While facing economic challenges common to many urban areas, the community appears to be establishing a strong identity and potentially becoming a hub for Black residents in Jackson. Future years will reveal whether this trend continues or if new patterns of diversity and economic development emerge.
