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South Lamar, Austin: Transition to White Majority and Economic Growth
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
South Lamar, a neighborhood in Austin, Texas, exhibits characteristics of a White Majority community with moderate diversity as of 2022. The white population comprises 63% of the neighborhood, with Hispanic (26%) and Asian (4%) populations also present. The median income of $72,466 in 2022 indicates a relatively affluent area. South Lamar is known for its food scene and proximity to outdoor spaces like Zilker Park.
Over the past decade, South Lamar has transitioned from a Moderate Diversity community to a White Majority area. In 2013, the neighborhood displayed a more balanced racial composition with a White Plurality (56% white, 34% Hispanic). By 2022, the white population increased to 63%, while the Hispanic population decreased to 26%. The Asian representation grew from 2% to 4% over the same period. The Black population remained stable at 2-3% throughout the decade.
The demographic shifts in South Lamar correlate with significant economic changes. The median income increased from $50,254 in 2013 to $72,466 in 2022, representing a 44% growth. This rise in income levels coincides with the increase in the white population percentage and the decrease in Hispanic representation. The neighborhood experienced a population boom between 2015 and 2016, growing from 8,158 to 9,242 residents, coinciding with a sharp increase in median income from $57,632 to $66,381.
The demographic and economic trends in South Lamar mirror patterns observed in many urban areas across the United States, particularly in rapidly growing cities like Austin. The phenomenon of urban gentrification is evident in South Lamar's evolving demographics. Austin as a whole has experienced significant growth and demographic changes over the past decade, becoming increasingly attractive to tech industry professionals and other high-income workers.
The increase in the Asian population aligns with national trends of growing Asian representation in urban and suburban areas, particularly in tech-oriented cities. However, the decrease in Hispanic representation contrasts with broader trends in Texas, where the Hispanic population has generally been growing statewide.
South Lamar's evolution over the past decade illustrates an interplay of demographic and economic forces, reflecting both local dynamics and broader urban trends. The neighborhood's transition to a White Majority community with increasing affluence suggests ongoing changes in its social and cultural landscape.
