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Demographic Stability in Colonial Heights: A Study of Racial Composition from 2013-2022
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Colonial Heights, a neighborhood in Columbia, South Carolina, exhibits a Low Diversity demographic profile with a strong Black Majority. As of 2022, the neighborhood had a population of 157 and a median income of $31,801. Colonial Heights is known for its historical significance, with many homes dating back to the mid-20th century.
Throughout the analyzed period (2013-2022), Colonial Heights has consistently maintained its status as a Black Majority neighborhood. The percentage of Black residents has remained above 85% throughout this period, with slight fluctuations. In 2013, the Black population was at 95%, and it has stayed relatively stable, ending at 94% in 2022. This consistency indicates a deeply rooted African American community in the area.
The neighborhood has shown minimal racial diversification over the years. Other racial groups, including White, Hispanic, Asian, and those of two or more races, have maintained small representations, typically below 5% each. This pattern suggests that Colonial Heights has not experienced significant demographic transitions and remains a Low Diversity area.
The median income in Colonial Heights has shown moderate growth over the analyzed period, albeit with some fluctuations. In 2013, the median income was $27,417, and by 2022 it had increased to $31,801, representing a growth of about 16% over nine years. There was a notable increase from 2020 to 2021, with median income jumping from $30,775 to $36,656. This was followed by a decrease in 2022 to $31,801.
Population trends show a general decline from 247 residents in 2013 to 157 in 2022, a decrease of about 36%. This population decrease could be attributed to various factors such as aging population, outmigration, or changes in household composition.
The persistent Black Majority in Colonial Heights is notable when compared to broader trends in many U.S. cities, where increasing diversity and gentrification often lead to demographic shifts in historically Black neighborhoods. The stability of the racial composition in Colonial Heights suggests strong community ties and possibly cultural factors that have maintained the neighborhood's character.
The median income growth in Colonial Heights, while positive, appears to be slower than national averages. For context, the U.S. median household income grew from about $52,250 in 2013 to $70,784 in 2021, an increase of about 35%. Colonial Heights' growth rate of 16% over a similar period indicates that the neighborhood may be facing economic challenges or slower growth compared to national trends.
The population decline in Colonial Heights contrasts with the general trend of urban population growth seen in many U.S. cities over the past decade. This could indicate that the neighborhood is facing challenges in retaining residents or attracting new ones, which may have implications for its future development and community vitality.
Colonial Heights presents a picture of a stable, predominantly African American community that has maintained its demographic character over the past decade, despite moderate economic growth and population decline. The neighborhood's resistance to significant demographic shifts in the face of these changes suggests a strong community fabric, but also raises questions about its long-term sustainability and ability to attract new residents.
