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Highland Neighborhood, Hickory, NC: Demographic Transition from White Majority to Increasing Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
DATA SOURCE
United States Census Bureau: American Community Survey Data (ACS)
Highland, a neighborhood in Hickory, North Carolina, exhibits characteristics of a White Majority community with growing diversity. As of 2022, the white population constitutes 53% of the residents. The neighborhood has experienced demographic shifts over the past decade, trending towards increased diversity. Economically, Highland has seen fluctuations in median income, with an increase in recent years. The area is known for its mix of historic homes and newer developments.
Highland has transitioned from a clear White Majority community to one on the cusp of becoming a Majority-Minority area. In 2013, the white population made up 62% of residents. By 2022, this percentage had decreased to 53%. This shift indicates a Transitional Community, with increasing representation from other racial groups.
The Hispanic population has grown from 18% in 2013 to 23% in 2022, while the Black population increased from 9% to 16% over the same period. The percentage of residents identifying as two or more races doubled from 3% to 6%. These trends suggest a movement towards Moderate Diversity, with three racial groups (White, Hispanic, and Black) each representing over 15% of the population.
The median income in Highland has fluctuated over the years, showing an overall upward trend. From $34,716 in 2013, it rose to $46,797 in 2021, before decreasing to $40,751 in 2022. This general increase in median income correlates with the neighborhood's increasing diversity, suggesting that the influx of new residents may be contributing to economic growth.
The population has remained relatively stable, with minor fluctuations between 6,785 and 7,589 residents over the past decade. The slight population growth, combined with increasing diversity and rising incomes, may indicate that Highland is becoming an attractive area for a wider range of residents.
The demographic shifts in Highland reflect broader national trends of increasing diversity in suburban and urban areas. Many communities across the United States are experiencing similar transitions from White Majority to more diverse populations, particularly with growth in Hispanic and multiracial populations.
The economic growth in Highland, while positive, appears to be more modest compared to national trends. The median household income in the United States was $70,784 in 2021, higher than Highland's peak of $46,797 in the same year. This suggests that while the neighborhood is experiencing economic improvement, it may still face challenges in terms of overall economic prosperity compared to national averages.
Highland is undergoing a demographic transformation, transitioning from a White Majority community to one that is increasingly diverse. This shift is accompanied by modest economic growth, suggesting a changing neighborhood dynamic. As Highland continues to evolve, it will be important to monitor how these demographic and economic changes impact community cohesion, local services, and overall quality of life for residents.
