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Demographic Transition in Stillman Neighborhood: From Black Majority to Racial Plurality
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Stillman neighborhood in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, demonstrates a demographic transition from a predominantly Black community to a racial plurality. As of 2022, the Black population comprises 50% of the neighborhood, while the White population has increased to 44%. This shift represents a change from a "Low Diversity" profile in 2013 to a "Moderate Diversity" status in 2022.
The demographic changes in Stillman correlate with economic trends. The median income has increased from $15,570 in 2013 to $26,146 in 2022, representing a 68% increase. Concurrently, the population has grown from 209 in 2013 to 355 in 2022, a 70% increase. These trends suggest that as the neighborhood has become more diverse, it has also become more affluent.
The presence of Stillman College, a historically Black liberal arts institution, likely influences the area's demographic makeup and community dynamics. The neighborhood's transition aligns with patterns observed in many urban areas across the United States, including increasing diversity in historically segregated neighborhoods and economic growth accompanying demographic shifts.
The demographic shift in Stillman is characterized by a decrease in the Black population from 69% in 2013 to 50% in 2022, and an increase in the White population from 29% in 2013 to 44% in 2022. Other racial groups, while still small, have shown increases, particularly Asian and Hispanic populations. This transition suggests a trend towards "Moderate Diversity," with two racial groups now having significant representation.
The economic trends in Stillman show a substantial increase in median income. The most significant increase occurred between 2020 and 2021, with median income rising from $24,290 to $30,726, before slightly decreasing in 2022. These economic changes, coupled with the influx of White residents, could indicate a process of gentrification or revitalization in the area.
Stillman exemplifies a neighborhood in transition, moving from a predominantly Black, lower-income area to a more diverse, higher-income community. This transition brings both opportunities and challenges, potentially improving economic conditions while also raising concerns about maintaining the neighborhood's historical character and affordability for long-term residents.
