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West Chesterfield: A Study of a Low Diversity, Black Majority Neighborhood in Chicago
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
West Chesterfield, a neighborhood in Chicago, Illinois, represents a Low Diversity community with a Black Majority. As of 2022, 93% of the population identifies as Black. The neighborhood's median income was $63,088 in 2022, which is below the national median household income. West Chesterfield is known for its historic bungalow district, featuring Chicago-style bungalows from the early 20th century.
Over the past decade, West Chesterfield has maintained its status as a Low Diversity, Black Majority community. From 2013 to 2022, the Black population remained above 90%, with slight fluctuations. The percentage of Black residents decreased from 97% in 2020 to 93% in 2022, while Hispanic and Two or More Races categories showed small but consistent increases.
The median income in West Chesterfield has shown a positive trend over the past decade. From $52,696 in 2013, it rose to $63,088 in 2022, representing a 19.7% increase. This economic improvement correlates with subtle demographic shifts, suggesting gradual gentrification or increased economic opportunities for residents.
The population of West Chesterfield has fluctuated, peaking at 4,977 in 2010 and declining to 3,828 in 2022. This population decrease, coupled with rising median incomes, might indicate a trend of higher-income residents moving in while others move out, potentially due to rising costs of living or improved economic prospects elsewhere.
The demographic composition of West Chesterfield contrasts with Chicago as a whole. While Chicago is categorized as a Majority-Minority city with significant representation from various racial groups, West Chesterfield maintains a homogeneous character.
The economic improvements in West Chesterfield align with broader national trends of rising median incomes in urban areas over the past decade. The neighborhood's racial homogeneity diverges from the increasing diversity seen in many urban neighborhoods across the United States.
The subtle shifts towards increased diversity mirror larger national trends of growing multiracial populations and increased Hispanic representation in urban areas. The pace of change in West Chesterfield is slower than in many other urban neighborhoods experiencing rapid demographic transitions.
West Chesterfield remains a Low Diversity, Black Majority community. The subtle demographic shifts and consistent economic improvements suggest potential for future changes. The neighborhood's ability to maintain its character while adapting to broader urban trends will be crucial in shaping its future development and community dynamics.
