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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Shelby Forest-Frayser neighborhood in Memphis, Tennessee, is categorized as a "Racial Majority" community with a Black population of 81% in 2022. This area has maintained its status as a predominantly Black neighborhood over the past decade. The median income in 2022 was $31,712, which is below the national median household income. Shelby Forest-Frayser is located near the Mississippi River and has historical significance in Memphis's industrial development.
Over the past decade, Shelby Forest-Frayser has remained in the "Racial Majority" category, with the Black population consistently representing over 75% of residents. The neighborhood has shown minimal racial diversification. The White population has decreased from 17% in 2013 to 13% in 2022. Hispanic and multiracial populations have slightly increased from 3% and 1% in 2013 to 3% and 2% in 2022, respectively.
The median income in Shelby Forest-Frayser increased from $28,928 in 2013 to $31,712 in 2022, representing a growth of about 9.6% over nine years. This growth has not been steady, with significant variations year to year. There was an increase to $34,716 in 2021, followed by a decrease in 2022. These economic fluctuations have had little impact on the racial composition of the neighborhood.
Population trends show a decline from 43,768 in 2010 to 35,079 in 2022, a decrease of about 19.9%. This population loss, coupled with the relatively stable racial composition, might indicate outmigration across all racial groups, potentially driven by economic factors or broader urban trends in Memphis.
The demographic stability of Shelby Forest-Frayser contrasts with national trends towards increasing diversity in urban areas. While many U.S. cities have experienced significant demographic shifts, this neighborhood has maintained its character as a predominantly Black community.
The economic challenges faced by Shelby Forest-Frayser are not uncommon in historically industrial areas of mid-sized American cities. Many such neighborhoods have struggled with the transition away from manufacturing economies, often resulting in population loss and economic stagnation.
The neighborhood's proximity to the Mississippi River and its industrial heritage could potentially offer opportunities for revitalization and economic development, which might influence future demographic trends. However, any such changes would need to be carefully managed to ensure they benefit the existing community and preserve its cultural identity.
Shelby Forest-Frayser represents a stable, predominantly Black community that has faced economic challenges and population decline over the past decade. While showing signs of very gradual diversification, its demographic composition has remained largely unchanged, reflecting both the strength of community ties and the complex interplay of economic and social factors shaping urban neighborhoods in America.