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Demographic Transition in Grafton Hill: From Black Majority to Moderate Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Grafton Hill, a neighborhood in Dayton, Ohio, exhibits a "Moderate Diversity" demographic profile as of 2022, with a White plurality (49%) and a significant Black population (42%). The neighborhood has experienced demographic shifts over the past decade, transitioning from a Black majority to its current more balanced racial composition. Economically, Grafton Hill has seen an increase in median income, rising from $14,220 in 2013 to $21,333 in 2022, suggesting improving economic conditions despite remaining below national averages.
From 2013 to 2017, Grafton Hill maintained a "Racial Majority" status with the Black population consistently above 50%. The White population during this period ranged from 33-39%. In 2018, the neighborhood transitioned to a "Majority-Minority" status as the Black population fell below 50% (54%) while still remaining the largest group. This shift continued through 2020, with increasing representation from other racial groups, particularly those identifying as two or more races.
The most recent years show a shift towards "Moderate Diversity." By 2022, the White population (49%) slightly exceeded the Black population (42%) for the first time in the recorded period, indicating a significant demographic transition.
The median income in Grafton Hill has shown a general upward trend, with some fluctuations. From 2013-2016, it remained relatively stable, ranging from $14,112 to $15,394. From 2017-2019, there was a significant increase to $21,708 in 2018, followed by a slight decline. From 2020-2022, there was continued growth, reaching $24,059 in 2021 before slightly decreasing to $21,333 in 2022. This economic improvement correlates with the shift towards greater racial diversity, suggesting that the neighborhood may be experiencing some level of gentrification or urban renewal.
The demographic shifts in Grafton Hill align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban areas. The transition from a predominantly Black neighborhood to one with more balanced racial representation is often seen in areas experiencing economic revitalization or changing housing patterns. The median income growth, while significant for the neighborhood, still places Grafton Hill well below the national median household income (which was approximately $70,784 in 2021). This suggests that while the neighborhood is experiencing positive economic changes, it still faces economic challenges compared to national averages.
The population of Grafton Hill has remained relatively stable over the decade, fluctuating between about 1,100 and 1,400 residents. This stability in population size, combined with changing demographics and rising incomes, could indicate a gradual replacement of some long-term residents with newcomers, potentially altering the neighborhood's cultural and economic landscape. Grafton Hill represents a "Transitional Community," evolving from a predominantly Black neighborhood to one of moderate diversity with improving economic indicators. This transition likely brings both opportunities and challenges for long-term residents and newcomers alike, potentially reshaping the neighborhood's identity and socio-economic dynamics.
