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Demographic Transition in Vale and Hamilton Hill: From Black Plurality to Moderate Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Vale and Hamilton Hill, a neighborhood in Schenectady, New York, has experienced a demographic transition from 2013 to 2022. The area, with a population of 7,436 and a median income of $32,102 as of 2022, has shifted from a Black Plurality to a Moderate Diversity profile. This neighborhood, historically linked to Schenectady's industrial past, was once home to many General Electric Company workers.
The demographic composition of Vale and Hamilton Hill has changed significantly over the past decade. In 2013, the neighborhood had a Black Plurality, with 41% of the population identifying as Black. This demographic structure remained relatively constant until 2018, when it briefly shifted to a Black Majority at 47%. By 2022, the neighborhood had transitioned back to a Moderate Diversity profile with a Black Plurality (31%), indicating a Transitional Community.
The Hispanic population in Vale and Hamilton Hill has shown steady growth, increasing from 20% in 2013 to 21% in 2022. The White population fluctuated between 20% and 29% over the decade. The Asian population and those identifying as two or more races have seen significant increases, particularly in recent years, contributing to the area's growing diversity.
The demographic shifts in Vale and Hamilton Hill correspond with changes in median income. From 2013 to 2022, the median income increased from $26,148 to $32,102, representing a 22.8% growth. This economic improvement coincides with the neighborhood's transition towards greater diversity. The period of highest median income ($33,799 in 2020) aligns with a more balanced racial distribution, suggesting a possible association between increased diversity and economic growth in this community. The population has grown from 7,403 in 2013 to 7,436 in 2022, indicating a stable neighborhood.
The demographic changes in Vale and Hamilton Hill reflect broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban areas. Many post-industrial cities across the United States have experienced similar transitions, with growing Hispanic and Asian populations contributing to more diverse community profiles. The economic growth seen in this neighborhood, while modest, is notable given the challenges many similar communities face in post-industrial regions. The increase in median income, though positive, still places Vale and Hamilton Hill below the national median household income (which was around $70,784 in 2021). This suggests that while the neighborhood is experiencing positive change, there is still room for economic development and growth.
Vale and Hamilton Hill exemplifies a Transitional Community, moving from a predominantly Black neighborhood to one of Moderate Diversity with improving economic indicators. This transition presents both opportunities and challenges for community cohesion and development, reflecting wider patterns of demographic and economic change in urban America.
