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Demographic Stability and Economic Fluctuations in Jackson's Predominantly African American Neighborhood
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Berwood Drive - Azalea Circle neighborhood in Jackson, Mississippi, is categorized as a "Low Diversity" community with a "Racial Majority" of African Americans, comprising 99% of the population as of 2022. The neighborhood's median income is $33,416 in 2022, following significant economic fluctuations over the past decade. This area holds historical significance in Jackson's civil rights movement, with streets named after prominent African American leaders.
Throughout the analyzed period (2013-2022), the neighborhood has maintained its status as a "Low Diversity" community with a strong "Racial Majority" of African Americans. The percentage of Black residents has remained above 90%, increasing from 95% in 2014 to 99% in 2022. Other racial groups have shown minimal fluctuations, with the White population peaking at 4% in 2018 before declining to 1% by 2022. The Hispanic population briefly reached 2% in 2017-2018 and 2020 but has since returned to 0%. This trend indicates a consolidation of the existing racial makeup rather than a transition towards greater diversity.
The neighborhood has experienced significant economic volatility over the past decade. The median income decreased from $51,492 in 2013 to $18,230 in 2015, a 65% reduction. Since then, there has been a gradual recovery with fluctuations. The median income rose to $37,802 in 2021 before declining to $33,416 in 2022. This economic instability correlates with population changes, as the neighborhood experienced a population decrease from 2,154 in 2010 to 1,581 in 2013, coinciding with the highest recorded median income. The population has since increased to 2,037 in 2022, potentially contributing to the overall lower median income compared to 2013 levels.
The persistent racial homogeneity of the Berwood Drive - Azalea Circle neighborhood contrasts with national trends towards increasing diversity in urban areas. While many U.S. cities have experienced growing racial and ethnic diversity over the past decade, this neighborhood has maintained its status as a predominantly African American community.
The economic volatility experienced in this neighborhood is more pronounced than national averages. The U.S. median household income has generally shown steady growth over the past decade, whereas this neighborhood has seen dramatic fluctuations. The current median income of $33,416 is significantly below the national median income, which was around $70,784 in 2021.
The neighborhood's population trends diverge from national urban patterns. While many U.S. cities have seen consistent population growth, this area experienced a significant decline followed by a rebound. This pattern could indicate local economic or social factors unique to Jackson or this specific neighborhood.
The Berwood Drive - Azalea Circle neighborhood presents a case of demographic stability in terms of racial composition, coupled with economic instability. These trends suggest that while the community has maintained its cultural identity, it has faced significant economic challenges that have impacted residents' financial well-being. The recent stabilization of both population and income levels may indicate a period of recovery, but the neighborhood still faces economic disparities compared to national averages.
