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Demographic Transition to Black Majority in South Franklinton, Columbus
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
South Franklinton in Columbus, Ohio, has experienced a significant demographic shift over the past decade. The neighborhood transitioned from a moderately diverse community to one with a clear racial majority. In 2022, 71% of the population identified as Black, compared to 45% in 2013. The area is characterized by very low median incomes, with the 2022 figure of $13,583 being below the national poverty line. South Franklinton has historical significance in Columbus's industrial past and has been the focus of urban renewal efforts in recent years.
The demographic transformation of South Franklinton occurred between 2013 and 2021. In 2013, the neighborhood had a nearly even split between Black (45%) and White (45%) residents. By 2021, the Black population increased to 74%, while the White population decreased to 21%. The transition to Black Majority status occurred around 2018-2019 when the Black population surpassed 50% of the total. This change could be attributed to factors such as gentrification in other parts of Columbus or targeted community development initiatives.
The shift towards a Black Majority coincided with a gradual increase in median income, rising from $11,026 in 2013 to $14,730 in 2021, representing a 33.6% increase. However, these income levels remain far below the national poverty threshold. The population of South Franklinton has fluctuated over the years with no clear trend, suggesting that the racial composition change was likely due to out-migration of White residents and in-migration of Black residents, rather than a significant influx of new residents overall.
The demographic shift in South Franklinton contrasts with broader national trends, which have generally shown increasing diversity in urban areas. While many U.S. cities have experienced gentrification leading to increased White populations in formerly minority-majority neighborhoods, South Franklinton appears to be moving in the opposite direction. The persistent low income levels in South Franklinton highlight the economic challenges faced by this community. The median income of $13,583 in 2022 is significantly below both the Ohio and national median household incomes, which were approximately $62,262 and $70,784 respectively in 2021.
The transformation of South Franklinton into a Black Majority community within a relatively short period is noteworthy and may reflect broader patterns of urban segregation and economic inequality. This trend could indicate limited housing options for low-income Black residents in other parts of Columbus, concentrating this demographic in areas like South Franklinton. The challenge for local policymakers will be to address the economic needs of the community while preserving its cultural identity and preventing displacement as urban renewal efforts continue.
