Loading Content...
Demographic Transition to Black Majority in Summer Trace, Winston-Salem
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Summer Trace, a neighborhood in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, has experienced a significant demographic shift from 2013 to 2022. The area transitioned from a moderately diverse community to a Black Majority neighborhood. As of 2022, African Americans comprise 59% of the population of 806 residents. The median income in Summer Trace is $40,248, indicating a lower-middle-income urban area.
The demographic transition occurred over a decade. In 2013, the neighborhood was classified as Moderate Diversity, with white residents at 50% and black residents at 31%. By 2018, it had become a Majority-Minority community. The shift to a Black Majority happened between 2020 and 2022, with the African American population increasing from 48% to 59%. Concurrently, the white population decreased from 50% in 2013 to 27% in 2022.
The Hispanic population in Summer Trace fluctuated during this period. It reached a peak of 19% in 2014 and 2021, before settling at 13% in 2022. The overall population remained relatively stable, ranging between 642 and 838 residents. This suggests that demographic changes were primarily due to in-migration of African American residents and out-migration of white residents, rather than significant overall population growth or decline.
The economic trends in Summer Trace correlate with the demographic shifts. In 2013, when the neighborhood was more diverse, the median income was $40,814. As the community transitioned towards a Black Majority, there was a downward trend in median income, reaching a low of $27,635 in 2019. However, the income has since rebounded to $40,248 in 2022, nearly matching the 2013 level despite the significant demographic changes.
The demographic evolution of Summer Trace reflects broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban areas, particularly in the Southern United States. Many cities have experienced similar shifts towards majority-minority status over the past decades. The rapid transition to a Black Majority in such a short time frame is somewhat unusual and may be indicative of specific local factors in Winston-Salem or North Carolina.
The economic trajectory of Summer Trace, with its recent income recovery, is noteworthy. While many areas experiencing rapid demographic shifts often see prolonged economic challenges, Summer Trace appears to have rebounded relatively quickly. This could suggest a resilient local economy or successful integration of new residents into the economic fabric of the community.
Summer Trace presents a case study of rapid demographic change coupled with economic fluctuation and recovery. As the neighborhood continues to evolve, it will be important to monitor how these changes impact community cohesion, local services, and economic opportunities for all residents.
