A comparison between Northern and Southern blacks residing in the North

Area of Science:

• Sociology
• Demography
• African American Studies

Background:

• Regional disparities among Black Americans in the North and West have been observed across various socioeconomic factors.
• Previous research has speculated on the causes of these North-South gaps, including work orientation and employment patterns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine differences between Southern-born Black migrants and Northern/Western-born Black residents in the North and West.
• To analyze variations in employment, occupation, income, marital stability, and offspring's school performance.
• To re-evaluate existing causal interpretations of North-South disparities.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of detailed cross-tabulations from the 1960 One-Percent Sample Tapes.
• Application of standard demographic controls.
• Stratification of Northern-born Black residents by generational status (second vs. third generation or more).

Main Results:

• Southern Black migrants generally exhibit more favorable rates in employment, marital stability, and income compared to Northern-born Black residents, even after demographic controls.
• The sharpest differences are observed in marital conditions, with migrants being more likely to marry and live with spouses.
• Migrant income advantage is concentrated among those with lower educational attainment; labor force participation differences between migrant and non-migrant men do not extend to women.

Conclusions:

• Migrant status is a significant factor influencing socioeconomic outcomes for Black Americans in the North and West.
• Existing explanations for North-South gaps require modification, particularly regarding gender-specific labor force participation and the impact of education on income.
• Generational differences among Northern-born Black residents do not significantly impact school performance outcomes.