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Philadelphia Woods, Dayton: A Study of Racial Demographics and Economic Growth
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Philadelphia Woods, a neighborhood in Dayton, Ohio, has transformed into a "Racial Majority" community, with African Americans comprising 84% of the population in 2022. This neighborhood has experienced significant demographic and economic shifts over the past decade. The median income in Philadelphia Woods was $51,006 in 2022, indicating resilience and growth despite challenges faced by many urban areas in the Rust Belt region.
From 2013 to 2022, Philadelphia Woods transitioned from a "Moderate Diversity" community to a "Racial Majority" area. In 2013, the neighborhood had a significant Black population (69%) and a notable White population (25%). Over the years, the Black population steadily increased while the White population decreased, leading to a more homogeneous racial composition.
This shift can be categorized as a "Transitional Community" during the mid-2010s, as the percentage of Black residents consistently increased year over year. By 2020, the neighborhood had firmly established itself as a "Racial Majority" community with 80% Black residents, a trend that continued to strengthen through 2022.
The demographic shifts in Philadelphia Woods correlate with notable economic changes. The median income rose from $31,856 in 2013 to $51,006 in 2022, representing a 60% increase over the decade. This economic growth coincided with the increasing racial homogeneity of the neighborhood. The population grew from 4,375 in 2013 to 5,749 in 2022, suggesting that the neighborhood became increasingly attractive to African American residents.
The trends observed in Philadelphia Woods reflect broader patterns seen in many urban areas across the United States, where certain neighborhoods have become increasingly racially homogeneous. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as "re-segregation." The economic improvement in Philadelphia Woods stands out as a positive trend. Many urban neighborhoods with increasing racial homogeneity often face economic challenges, but Philadelphia Woods has experienced rising median income.
The population growth in Philadelphia Woods contrasts with the overall trend in Dayton, which has experienced population decline in recent decades. This suggests that Philadelphia Woods may be viewed as a desirable neighborhood within the city.
Philadelphia Woods has undergone a significant transformation over the past decade, evolving from a moderately diverse community to one with a strong African American majority. This demographic shift has been accompanied by economic improvements and population growth, potentially positioning it as a model for community development in the region.
