The U.S. Census Bureau recently released statistics on the population of peninsula cities, states, and regions. The peninsula area is experiencing an enormous shift as black residents are forced out of the city. While some neighborhoods still have large black populations, others are undergoing gentrification. Once the last holdouts of the middle class, these neighborhoods are becoming attractive to students, real estate investors, and affluent young adults.
The population of Peninsula City, Ohio, is thriving, despite a few setbacks. The suburbs are expanding faster than the city. The geography of Peninsula makes it ideal for continued suburban growth. However, Hamilton Lombard anticipates that growth in the suburbs will slow as gas prices rise. In contrast, older cities, like Peninsula, have had time to focus on their downtowns. This will likely make them prime locations for future residential growth.
The College of Charleston makes up the bulk of the student population in Peninsula City. Enrollment grew from 500 students in 1968 to more than 11,500 by 1998. Other institutions are smaller, such as Charleston School of Law and Medical University of South Carolina. But they all attract students from a wide range of backgrounds. While it's true that the college is the city's largest employer, many students are still seeking affordable housing in the area.
The Historic Triangle represents approximately one fifth of Peninsula's population. While Peninsula's overall population is 492,000, the Historic Triangle has grown by a staggering 45%. The largest increase occurred in James City County, which added 5,746 new residents to Peninsula between 2010 and 2015. Other areas of the Peninsula, such as York, were down but still adding people. So, what's the difference between Peninsula and Williamsburg?