Demographic Shifts in Holly Hill: From Low to Moderate Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
DATA SOURCE
Holly Hill, a neighborhood in Levittown, Pennsylvania, exhibits a transition from a predominantly White community to one of increasing diversity. As of 2022, the neighborhood has a population of 1,373 and a median income of $70,145. Holly Hill is characterized by its "Levittown houses," which were part of the planned community development in the post-World War II era.
Over the past decade, Holly Hill has transitioned from a Low Diversity community to one approaching Moderate Diversity. In 2013, the neighborhood was categorized as Low Diversity with a white population of 90%. By 2022, the white population decreased to 74%, while other racial groups, particularly Black, Hispanic, and those identifying as two or more races, saw increases.
This shift indicates a Transitional Community status, with the white population decreasing by 16 percentage points over nine years. The Black population increased from 1% to 8%, and the Hispanic population rose from 6% to 9%. The percentage of residents identifying as two or more races increased from 0% to 6%, indicating a growing multiracial presence.
The demographic shifts in Holly Hill have occurred alongside fluctuations in median income. From 2013 to 2018, there was an upward trend in median income, peaking at $83,278 in 2018. In 2019, there was a drop to $60,587, followed by a recovery to $70,145 in 2022. This income volatility coincides with the increasing diversity of the neighborhood.
The population has remained relatively stable over this period, ranging from about 1,300 to 1,700 residents. This suggests that the demographic changes are likely due to a combination of existing residents leaving and new, more diverse residents moving in, rather than significant overall population growth.
The trends observed in Holly Hill reflect broader national patterns of increasing diversity in suburban areas. Many post-World War II suburbs, originally developed as predominantly white communities, have been experiencing similar demographic shifts over the past few decades. This change is often attributed to factors such as increased mobility, changing housing preferences, and evolving socio-economic conditions.
The income fluctuations, particularly the sharp drop in 2019, may reflect broader economic challenges faced by the region or nation. The subsequent recovery suggests a degree of economic resilience in the community.
Holly Hill represents a microcosm of demographic and economic changes occurring in many American suburbs. Its transition from a Low Diversity to a more diverse community, coupled with economic fluctuations, presents both challenges and opportunities for community cohesion and development. As this trend continues, it will be crucial for local leaders and residents to adapt to and embrace the changing demographics while addressing any economic disparities that may arise.
