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Demographic Stability and Economic Challenges in Tarpley City: A Predominantly Black Neighborhood in Birmingham, Alabama
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Tarpley City, a neighborhood in Birmingham, Alabama, is characterized by Low Diversity with a strong Black Majority. As of 2022, the population is 95% Black and 5% White, with 264 residents and a median income of $22,431. The neighborhood has historical significance in Birmingham's civil rights movement.
Over the past decade, Tarpley City has maintained its status as a Black Majority community. From 2013 to 2022, the Black population remained above 90%, with minor fluctuations. The most notable change occurred between 2019 and 2020, when the Black population decreased from 95% to 91%, and the White population increased from 4% to 8%. This shift was temporary, as the racial composition returned to its previous balance in subsequent years.
The neighborhood has consistently remained in the Low Diversity category. This stability suggests deeply rooted community structures and limited influx of new residents from different racial backgrounds.
The median income in Tarpley City has shown volatility over the years, with a slight upward trend. In 2013, the median income was $21,657, increasing to $22,431 by 2022, representing a 3.6% growth over nine years. Notable fluctuations include a dip to $17,683 in 2016 and a peak of $25,688 in 2018.
The population has experienced fluctuations, starting at 207 in 2013, reaching a low of 185 in 2019, and growing to 264 by 2022. This recent population growth of 42.7% from 2019 to 2022 is significant and may indicate improving economic conditions or other factors attracting new residents.
The demographic stability of Tarpley City contrasts with national trends, where many urban areas have experienced increasing diversity over the past decade. The neighborhood's persistent Black Majority and Low Diversity profile is typical of historically segregated urban areas in the American South.
Economically, Tarpley City's median income remains below both the Alabama state median ($54,943 in 2021) and the national median ($69,021 in 2021). This income gap highlights the ongoing economic disparities faced by many predominantly Black communities in the United States.
The recent population growth in Tarpley City is noteworthy, especially given the broader context of population decline in many urban core neighborhoods across the country. This growth could be attributed to factors such as affordable housing, community revitalization efforts, or changing preferences among certain demographic groups.
Tarpley City presents a picture of demographic stability with some economic fluctuations. While the racial composition has remained largely unchanged, recent population growth and modest income improvements suggest potential for positive change. However, the persistent income gap indicates that significant challenges remain in achieving economic parity with broader regional and national standards.
