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Demographic Transition in Dunbar-Manhattan Heights: From Black Majority to Hispanic-Black Plurality
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Dunbar-Manhattan Heights neighborhood in Lubbock, Texas, exhibits a demographic profile categorized as a Majority-Minority community with Moderate Diversity. As of 2022, the neighborhood has a population of 3,176. Hispanic residents comprise 44% of the population, followed by Black residents at 38%. The median income in 2022 was $24,980. This neighborhood has historical significance as one of Lubbock's oldest African American communities, with roots dating back to the early 20th century.
Over the past decade, Dunbar-Manhattan Heights has undergone a transition in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood had a Black Majority, with 50% of the population identifying as Black. By 2022, the community had shifted to a Majority-Minority status with Moderate Diversity. The Hispanic population increased from 30% in 2013 to 44% in 2022, while the Black population decreased from 50% to 38%. The White population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 13% and 23% throughout the decade. The community has consistently shown low representation of Asian, Native American, and Pacific Islander populations.
The median income in the neighborhood has shown volatility over the past decade. Starting at $24,216 in 2013, it reached a peak of $34,728 in 2018 before declining to $24,980 in 2022. This fluctuation appears to correlate with the demographic shifts, particularly the increase in the Hispanic population. The years of highest median income (2016-2019) coincided with a period of relative stability in the racial composition, with the Black population maintaining a plurality. The recent decrease in median income aligns with the shift towards a more balanced distribution between Black and Hispanic residents, suggesting potential economic challenges associated with this demographic transition.
The population of the neighborhood has fluctuated, decreasing from 3,963 in 2013 to 3,176 in 2022. This decline might indicate outmigration, possibly related to economic factors or changing neighborhood dynamics.
The demographic shift observed in Dunbar-Manhattan Heights reflects broader trends seen in many urban areas across the United States, where historically Black neighborhoods are experiencing an influx of Hispanic residents. This trend is associated with changing immigration patterns and socio-economic factors. The economic volatility in the neighborhood, particularly the recent decline in median income, may be indicative of challenges faced by many inner-city communities, including gentrification pressures and shifting job markets. The relatively low median income compared to national averages suggests that the neighborhood continues to face economic challenges.
The transition from a Black Majority to a Majority-Minority community with a growing Hispanic population presents opportunities and challenges. It may lead to increased cultural diversity and new economic opportunities, but it could also potentially strain community resources and require adaptations in local services and institutions to meet changing needs. Dunbar-Manhattan Heights is undergoing a significant demographic and economic transition. As it evolves from a predominantly Black community to a more diverse Majority-Minority neighborhood, attention to economic development, community integration, and preservation of cultural heritage will be crucial for ensuring a positive trajectory for all residents.
