When referring to the "blackest counties" in Georgia, this can be interpreted in two distinct ways: counties with the highest percentage of Black residents, or counties with the largest absolute number of Black residents. Both perspectives offer unique insights into the demographic landscape of the state.
Counties with the Highest Percentage of Black Residents
Counties with the highest proportion of Black residents are often found in the rural, central, and southwestern parts of Georgia, as well as specific areas within major metropolitan regions. These counties reflect a significant demographic majority.
Here are some of Georgia's counties with the highest percentage of Black or African American residents, based on recent U.S. Census Bureau estimates:
| Rank | County | Percentage of Black Residents (Non-Hispanic) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Clayton County | 74.0% |
| 2 | Hancock County | Approximately 70.5% |
| 3 | Clay County | Approximately 65.6% |
| 4 | Taliaferro County | Approximately 62.3% |
| 5 | Quitman County | Approximately 56.4% |
| 6 | Jefferson County | Approximately 53.8% |
| 7 | DeKalb County | 53.3% |
| 8 | Sumter County | Approximately 52.8% |
| 9 | Baker County | Approximately 52.1% |
| 10 | Dougherty County | Approximately 52.1% |
DeKalb County, for example, is notable for its significant Black population, comprising 53.3 percent of its total residents.
Counties with the Largest Black Population Numbers
In terms of sheer numbers, the counties with the largest Black populations are primarily located within Georgia's major metropolitan areas, particularly the Atlanta region, reflecting concentrated urban populations.
Below are the Georgia counties with the largest absolute numbers of Black or African American residents, according to recent data:
| Rank | County | Number of Black Residents (Non-Hispanic) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fulton County | 440,568 |
| 2 | DeKalb County | 392,421 |
| 3 | Gwinnett County | Approximately 280,000 |
| 4 | Clayton County | Approximately 215,000 |
| 5 | Cobb County | Approximately 170,000 |
| 6 | Bibb County | Approximately 85,000 |
| 7 | Muscogee County | Approximately 85,000 |
Fulton County, which includes a significant portion of the city of Atlanta, has the largest number of Black residents at 440,568. DeKalb County follows with 392,421 Black residents.
Key Demographics
The distribution of Georgia's Black residents highlights a concentration in major urban and suburban areas, such as the Atlanta metropolitan region, as well as a strong historical presence in several smaller, rural counties throughout the state. Understanding these demographic patterns is crucial for appreciating the rich diversity of Georgia.
For more detailed demographic information, you can explore data from the U.S. Census Bureau.
