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Demographic Transition in Powelton: From White Majority to Moderate Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Powelton, a neighborhood in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, exhibits Moderate Diversity based on its 2022 racial composition. The white population stands at 51%, maintaining a slight Racial Majority. The community's median income was $28,518 in 2022, reflecting economic fluctuations over the past decade. Powelton's proximity to Drexel University influences its demographic and economic characteristics.
Over the past decade, Powelton has transitioned from Low Diversity to Moderate Diversity. In 2013, the white population comprised 61% of residents, decreasing to 51% by 2022. This shift places Powelton on the border between a White Majority and a Transitional Community. The Black population increased from 7% in 2013 to 18% in 2022, while the Asian population remained relatively stable between 20-24% throughout the decade. These changes indicate a trend towards increasing diversity.
Powelton's median income has shown volatility over the past decade. It started at $16,560 in 2013, dropped to $12,533 in 2014, then began an overall upward trend. The income peaked at $37,337 in 2021 before declining to $28,518 in 2022. The population grew steadily from 3,771 in 2013 to 4,324 in 2022, a 14.7% increase. This growth, combined with the evolving racial composition, suggests Powelton is attracting a more diverse group of residents.
The demographic shifts in Powelton align with broader national trends towards increasing diversity in urban areas. The neighborhood's proximity to Drexel University likely accelerates this trend. The significant Asian population (21% in 2022) is higher than the national average of around 6% in 2020, reflecting the influence of the university and possibly international student populations.
The economic volatility observed in Powelton, particularly the sharp increase and subsequent decrease in median income between 2020 and 2022, may be partly attributed to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. This pattern might reflect broader economic disruptions experienced in many urban areas during this period.
Powelton is experiencing a demographic transition from a White Majority area to a more diverse community. This shift, coupled with fluctuating economic indicators, suggests a neighborhood in flux, influenced by its proximity to educational institutions and broader urban demographic trends. As Powelton continues to evolve, it may soon cross the threshold into a Majority-Minority or High Diversity category, reflecting the changing face of many American urban neighborhoods.
