Demographic Stability and Subtle Economic Growth in Detroit's Berg-Lasher Neighborhood: A Predominantly African American Community
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
DATA SOURCE
The Berg-Lasher neighborhood in Detroit, Michigan, is classified as a "Low Diversity" community with a "Black Majority." As of 2022, the neighborhood has a population of 12,254 and a median income of $45,417. This area has maintained a predominantly African American population despite economic challenges faced by Detroit in recent decades.
From 2013 to 2022, Berg-Lasher consistently maintained its status as a "Black Majority" neighborhood. The Black population remained dominant, constituting between 87% to 90% of the total population. Minor shifts occurred, including a slight decrease in the Black population from 90% in 2013 to 87% in 2022, an increase in multiracial residents from 1% in 2013 to 6% in 2022, and fluctuation in the White population around 6-8% throughout the decade.
The economic trajectory of Berg-Lasher shows a general upward trend. Median income increased from $37,583 in 2013 to $45,417 in 2022, a 20.8% increase. A notable dip occurred in 2014 ($33,759) before recovering and continuing to grow. The highest median income was recorded in 2021 at $46,331.
The economic improvement correlates with subtle demographic shifts. The slight increase in diversity might be linked to economic growth attracting a wider range of residents. The stable Black majority has experienced some economic gains over the decade. The increase in multiracial residents could be associated with changing socio-economic dynamics in the area.
Berg-Lasher's ability to maintain a stable population and see income growth is noteworthy in the context of Detroit's broader economic challenges. The neighborhood's relative stability in racial composition stands out against national trends of rapid diversification and gentrification in urban areas, suggesting strong community ties and possibly intentional efforts to preserve the neighborhood's cultural character.
The increase in median income should be considered against the backdrop of national inflation rates. The real purchasing power of residents may not have increased as significantly as the nominal income figures suggest.
Berg-Lasher represents a case of a predominantly African American neighborhood that has maintained its demographic character while experiencing modest economic improvements. This stability suggests a strong community identity and resilience. The subtle increases in diversity and income may indicate early stages of more significant changes in the future, warranting continued observation of these trends and their impacts on the community.
