St. Pete’s Black Population Is Shrinking In Record Numbers
There is some shocking news that was just released by The U.S. Census Bureau. In the newly released data, it says that St. Petersburg’s Black population is shrinking rapidly. Released December 7, 2023, it says the Black population is leaving St. Pete, Florida at lightning speed. As a matter of fact, the African American population is the only race or ethnic group that’s leaving at a rapid pace.
Why Is The Black Population Leaving St. Pete?
PowerBrokerMagazine found answers as to why this phenomenon is happening. It seems that St. Pete has lost over 10% of its Black residents consistently between 2018 to 2022. This could be attributed to the cost of living, which has significantly risen, and new residents moving here from all over the country. Ultimately the city’s Black population lost 10% of its residents.
What’s more interesting is that the opposite is happening to the rest of Pinellas & Florida. According to PowerBroker, “The Black population grew over 16% across the rest of Pinellas County and by 7% across Florida.” African Americans are the only race that is leaving St. Petersburg in over a decade. When something like this happens it’s often defined as ‘Outmigration.’ Data from The U.S. Census Bureau shows that self-employed, college educated Black people are leaving the area in droves. More data shows that the population growth in St. Pete grew 60% for Native Americans between 2012 and 2022. During the same time, the Hispanic population grew by 39% and Asian population grew by 25%.
There’s no clear answer as to why this exodus is happening in St. Petersburg, Florida but we can only assume a few things are causing this issue. The cost of living having risen s0 much that over 50% of young adults are still living with their parents. These days, young men and women are still living with their parents well into their mid to late 20’s. Many residents say it’s because everything has gotten so expensive. According to Zillow, the median rent in St. Petersburg is $2,200 which is $200 more than the national average. However, an exact reason for the Black population leaving St. Pete isn’t exactly known.
Here Are The Cheapest Florida Cities To Rent In 2024
10. Tallahassee
Tallahassee has a population of 197, 102! The average rent price: $1,464.
9. Winter Haven
Winter Haven has a population of 52,710 and the average rent price is $1456.
8. Tarpon Springs
Tarpons Springs have a population of 25,560 and average rent price is $1,469. There’s lots to see and do in Tarpon Springs, and so many good authentic Greek restaurants. The Sponge Docks is also a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon!
7. Lynn Haven
Lynn Haven has a population of 18,990. Average rent price in Lynn Haven is $1305. I’ve never heard of this Florida city so I had to look it up. It is located in Bay County, and is not far from Panama City.
6. Plant City
Plant city has a population of 39,653. The average rent price in Plant City is $973.
5. Panama City
Panama City has a population of 34,667 and the average rent price is $945. For it being a popular tourist destination, we’re surprised the rent isn’t more expensive.
4. Green Cove Springs
Green Cove Springs has a population of 8, 577. The average rent price is $916. Green Cove Springs is apart of the Jacksonville metro area.
3. Titusville
Titusville has a population of 46, 580. The average rent price in this city is $948. Titusville is also in the Jacksonville area.
2. Haines City
Haines City has a population 26, 009. The average price of rent is $1024. Haines City is in Polk County and is not far from the Lakeland area.
1. Lake City
Lake City has a population of 12,352. The average price is $856. Lake City is a super small town 60 miles west of Jacksonville. Rent must be super cheap here because there are little to no amenities and NOTHING to do.
