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Demographic Transitions in Bustleton: A Study of Racial Composition from 2013 to 2022
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Bustleton, a neighborhood in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, currently presents a demographic profile categorized as a "White Majority" community, with 61% of the population identifying as white in 2022. This majority has been declining over the past decade, indicating a trend towards increasing diversity. The neighborhood is known for its suburban-like atmosphere within the city limits, featuring a mix of single-family homes and apartment complexes.
Over the past decade, Bustleton has undergone a transformation in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood was categorized as "Low Diversity," with the white population comprising 74% of residents. By 2022, this percentage had dropped to 61%, barely maintaining its "White Majority" status. This shift suggests a transition towards a "Moderate Diversity" classification, as other racial groups have gained representation.
The Asian population has seen substantial growth, increasing from 13% in 2013 to 19% in 2022. The Black and Hispanic populations have also grown, each reaching around 8-9% by 2022. This trend indicates that Bustleton is becoming a "Transitional Community," with increasing representation from various racial groups.
The demographic shifts in Bustleton have been accompanied by fluctuations in median income. The median income rose from $69,889 in 2013 to a peak of $78,568 in 2021, before declining to $68,316 in 2022. This overall increase in median income, despite a more diverse population, suggests that the neighborhood is attracting middle to upper-middle-class residents from various racial backgrounds.
The population has grown steadily, from 35,549 in 2013 to 37,162 in 2022, indicating that Bustleton remains attractive for new residents. This population growth, coupled with increasing diversity and relatively stable median incomes, suggests that the neighborhood is integrating new residents while maintaining economic stability.
The demographic shifts observed in Bustleton reflect broader trends seen in many urban areas across the United States, where traditionally white-majority neighborhoods are experiencing increased diversity. This trend is associated with changing immigration patterns, increased social mobility among minority groups, and evolving preferences for urban living among diverse populations.
Compared to national trends, Bustleton's transition appears gradual and stable. While many urban areas have experienced rapid gentrification or demographic turnover, Bustleton's changes seem more measured, potentially allowing for smoother integration of new residents and preservation of community character.
The neighborhood's ability to maintain a relatively high median income while diversifying is noteworthy. It suggests that Bustleton may be attracting skilled professionals from various backgrounds, potentially benefiting from Philadelphia's growing reputation as a more affordable alternative to other major East Coast cities.
Bustleton exemplifies a neighborhood in transition, moving from a low-diversity, white-majority area to one of increasing racial and ethnic diversity. This change, coupled with economic stability, positions Bustleton as a microcosm of broader urban demographic shifts, offering insights into how communities can evolve while maintaining their economic vitality and community appeal.
