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Demographic Transitions in Pinewood: A Study of Racial Composition and Economic Indicators
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Pinewood neighborhood in Mobile, Alabama, exhibits characteristics of a "Transitional Community" with "Moderate Diversity." As of 2022, Pinewood has a population of 1,315 and a median income of $48,031. The neighborhood has undergone significant demographic changes over the past decade, shifting from a balanced racial composition to a Black plurality.
Pinewood's demographic composition has changed notably since 2013. Initially, the neighborhood had equal proportions of Black and White residents at 48% each. By 2019, it had become a "Black Majority" community with 63% Black residents. This trend partially reversed by 2022, resulting in a "Black Plurality" with 49% Black residents and 42% White residents. The emergence of a Hispanic population (6% in 2022) and a consistent multiracial group (2-3% since 2017) has contributed to increased diversity.
The demographic shifts in Pinewood correlate with changes in median income. In 2013, when the racial composition was balanced, the median income was $48,726. As the Black population percentage increased to its peak in 2019, the median income declined to $42,061. With the transition to a more diverse makeup in recent years, the median income has recovered to $48,031 in 2022, nearly matching the 2013 level.
Pinewood's population has fluctuated, decreasing from 1,128 in 2013 to 955 in 2018, before increasing to 1,524 in 2021 and settling at 1,315 in 2022. This population growth coincides with increasing diversity and economic recovery, suggesting a potential influx of new residents.
The demographic evolution of Pinewood reflects broader trends observed in many urban areas across the United States, where historically segregated neighborhoods are experiencing increased diversity. The initial decline in median income as the Black population increased, followed by a recovery as the neighborhood became more diverse, mirrors patterns seen in other transitioning communities nationwide.
The recent increase in Hispanic residents aligns with national trends of growing Hispanic populations in areas previously dominated by Black and White residents. This gradual diversification could indicate Pinewood's potential for future economic growth and cultural enrichment.
The economic recovery in Pinewood, bringing the median income back to near 2013 levels by 2022, is noteworthy given the challenges many communities faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. This resilience suggests that Pinewood may be benefiting from Mobile's broader economic developments or targeted community investment initiatives.
Pinewood's transition from a balanced, high-diversity neighborhood to a transitional community with moderate diversity highlights the dynamic nature of urban demographics. The correlation between these demographic shifts and economic indicators underscores the complex interplay between racial composition and community prosperity.
