ποΈππ₯ Di Mo’ Elite Predominantly Black Communities for America
β¬οΈ Pidgin β¬οΈ β¬οΈ Black American Slang β¬οΈ English
From one kain high-class area wey bin be plantation to “Di Black Beverly Hills,” π΄π dis kind nabes na home to di melanated, moneyed people π°π.
Na so di television shows wey showcase Black elite life like Our Kind of People, Harlem, and The Real Housewives of Potomac don make us see small small inside di sitting room, backyard, and play areas of di melanated, moneyed people πΊπ . Dis attention wey dem dey give to rich Black professionals, business owners, and dia heirs don spark our interest for di lifestyle of di Black elite πΌπ. We wan sabi wia di richest Black people dey find and invest for community. Wia be some of di well-to-do Black areas for America, and wetin e really dey like to live inside dem? π€πΈ
Plenty Black areas show face sake of di laws wey dem put based on race wey bin force di Black people wey get money to buy house make dem come gather for one place π‘π. Even di rich people self dey face segregation based on redlining, wey come make dis elite Black communities still dey flourish today π§πͺ. Los Angeles County get some rich areas, especially Baldwin Hills, one kain Black celebrity abode wey dem dey call “Di Black Beverly Hills” π΄π. We no go fit forget Prince George’s County, Maryland, and di influential Black suburb of Washington, D.C., wey dem dey showcase for The Real Housewives of Potomac, and we no go fit ignore di arts area of Harlem, for New York City, wey dem dey showcase for di hit Starz drama Run the World ππ. We go look oda areas wey dey bougie like Olympia Fields, Illinois. Some honorable mentions na Cedar Hills, Texas, and Wheatley Heights and Hillcrest, New York ππΌ.
View ParkβWindsor Hills, Los Angeles County, California ππ
History: View ParkβWindsor Hills na one of di richest Black communities for U.S. and e dey inside di National Register of Historic Places π°π. Na di hometown of producer-actor Issa Rae and e serve as inspiration for her HBO drama Insecure, wey dey talk about Black L.A. single life. For di show, Rae intentionally dey show di sexy and chic side of L.A.’s Black areas π¬π.
Area vibe: Apart from di fine view of downtown, dis calm and low-key area get “plenty architectural styles,” wey longtime resident Steven Lott, wey be architect and managing principal for Raw International, tok π«π’.
Wetin di locals like: Lott like say e dey close to di vibrant cultural arts for di nearby Black village of Leimert Park, and e like di rich heritage wey e get: e bin be site for di Olympic Village during di 1932 Olympics π¨ποΈ.
Hot spot for di area: Simply Wholesome na Black-owned casual health-food restaurant and market wey you fit see celebrity for dere. (simplywholesome.com) π₯π±
Well-known residents, past and present: Doria Ragland, mother of Meghan, Duchess of Sussex; Debbie Allen; Ray Charles; Ike Turner; Tina Turner; Nancy Wilson; Regina King; IssaRae ππ
Plenty Black areas show face sake of di laws wey dem put based on race wey bin force di Black people wey get money to buy house make dem come gather for one place π§πͺ. Even di rich people self dey face segregation based on redlining, wey come make dis elite Black communities still dey flourish today πΌπ.
Baldwin Hills, Los Angeles County, California π΄π
History: Baldwin Hills na di biggest middle- and upper-class Black community for Los Angeles. Dem dey call am “Di Black Beverly Hills” π΄π sake of di actors and musicians wey don gather for dere. Dis community show face well well with di BET docudrama Baldwin Hills for 2007 π₯π.
Neighborhood vibe: E dey friendly and quiet “known for its spectacular views of the ocean, downtown and snow-capped mountains,” says Sheila Coates, wey be brand strategist and owner of BYOB (byobunlimited.com), wey don live for di area for 27 years ποΈβοΈ.
What locals love: Di rich cultural mix of homeowners wey include famous entertainers, politicians, executives, and entrepreneurs. Plus, di area dey close to downtown, LAX, Beverly Hills, and di beaches. “We are walking distance to Kenneth Hahn State Park’s hiking trails, bike-to-the-beach paths, and stunning scenic overlooks,” says Coates πποΈ.
Hot spot for di area: Black-owned Post & Beam dey serve upscale soul food. You fit see celeb or CEO for dere. (postandbeamla.com) π½οΈπ₯
Well-known residents, past and present: Ice Cube, the King of Gospel James Cleveland, former Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley, and musician Lenny Kravitz, wey grow up for dere π€π΅
Ladera Heights, Los Angeles County, California π΄π‘
History: E share border with Baldwin Hills for di north, View Park for di east, and Inglewood for di south π΄ποΈ.
Neighborhood vibe: Doris Henderson, wey be retired teacher, and her husband, Franklin, wey be electrical engineer, bin choose dis quiet, picturesque neighborhood 48 years ago.
What locals love: “Our neighbors care not only for their homes and their beautiful neighborhood, but deeply for each other,” says Doris Henderson. She add say dem no go fit imagine how dem go fit survive di COVID-19 lockdown without di help from dia loving neighbors.
Hot spot for di area: Eat and dance for The New Townhouse, wey na Black-owned restaurant and nightclub. (thenewtownhousela.com) π½οΈπ
Well-known residents, past and present: Vanessa Williams, WNBA’s Lisa Leslie, attorney Christopher Darden, and rapper Tyler, the Creator ππ€
Mitchellville and Woodmore, Prince George’s County, Maryland π‘π³
History: Mitchellville get name from di owners of di plantation wey dem build am on. Today, tobacco farms don turn to thriving Black residential community. Overlapping Woodmore na one of di premier gated communities for di Washington, D.C. suburbs. Dem build am around di Country Club at Woodmore, and di community get upscale single-family homes inside six themed villages π°ποΈ.
Neighborhood vibe: Di area dey clean and quiet, with tree-lined streets, sprawling green spaces, and a championship golf course. Na home to sports stars,CEOs, and entrepreneurs. Di drama-full ladies of The Real Housewives of Potomac don draw attention to PG County, as dem show us say extra-large homes, luxury cars, and designer clothes and shoes na di norm for some people for dere. “Living here definitely get prestige,” George DuBose III, wey be Realtor and don live for dere for 24 years tok π‘πΌ.
Wetin locals like: “We get large, stunning homes for here along with a country club, a signature Arnold Palmer Golf Course, clay tennis courts, swimming pools, manicured and pristine lawns, and long driveways,” tok DuBose. Attorney and community activist Marva Jo Campo point out “di sense of belonging, pride for our culture, and self-awareness wey my daughters get because dem dey live here fit carry dem go anywhere for di world” ποΈπΎ.
Hot spot for di area: Milk & Honey Express na Black-owned brunch spot for nearby Glenarden. (milkandhoneyexpress.com) π₯β
Well-known residents, past and present: American ballet dancer, activist, and actress Sydney Magruder Washington; Minnesota Lynx guard Lindsay Allen; D.C. United defender Chris Odoi-Atsem; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Chris Lykes; and entrepreneur and restaurant chain owner Lance London πππ
Kettering, Prince George’s County, Maryland ποΈπ³
History: Kettering na one middle-class Black enclave for Upper Marlboro, wey get mix of modest-sized homes and townhomes.
Neighborhood vibe: E dey safe, quiet, family-friendly, and affordable. “When I move here, di homes bin dey affordable and still dey, relative to di D.C. market,” tok Van Glenn, wey be federal government human resources executive.
Wetin locals love: “My neighbors dey friendly and we know each other well well and dey look out for each other. E dey very convenient to everything for di area with easy access to di metro and di beltway to enter D.C. quick-quick,” tok Glenn.
Hot spot for di area: Di old BET soundstage don turn Jasper’s Restaurant, one lively place for brunch for Largo, Maryland, one mile from Kettering. (jaspersrestaurants.com) π½οΈπ
Well-known residents, past and present: Not many. Di area dey favored by low-key Washington, D.C., government employees π΄οΈποΈ.
Harlem, New York City ππ
History: Harlem don turn creative mecca since di 1920s and ’30s Harlem Renaissance. Today, Harlem na art and fashion mecca. Di fiercely fashionable Starz show Run the World na for inside di area, wey dey styled by icon Patricia Field (Sex and the City). During New York Fashion Week last year, Harlem’s Fashion Row summit draw fashion’s elite like Anna Wintour; designers Tom Ford and Tommy Hilfiger; and Harlem native, Bevelations author, and radio and television host Bevy Smith π¨π.
Neighborhood vibe: “Di Black Harlem experience na my experience, even with gentrification,” tok Smith. “Black art, culture, museums, fashion β e dey all for here. Harlem na di cornerstone of Black America.” You go see people from all walks of life for here. While buyers dey buy up row houses to renovate, most residents na renters, and di area get high home prices for di urban oasis, although di average income of di residents dey lower than disuburbs for dis list ποΈπΌ.
Wetin locals love: “Di world bin dey open for me as I grow up for here…,” tok Smith. “Black art, culture, museums, fashion β everything dey here. Harlem na di cornerstone of Black America.” You go see people from all walks of life for here. While buyers dey buy up row houses to renovate, most residents na renters, and di area get high home prices for di urban oasis, although di average income of di residents dey lower than di suburbs for dis list.
What locals love: “Di world bin dey open for me as I grow up for here…,” tok Smith. “Black art, culture, museums, fashion β everything dey here. Harlem na di cornerstone of Black America.” You go see people from all walks of life for here. While buyers dey buy up row houses to renovate, most residents na renters, and di area get high home prices for di urban oasis, although di average income of di residents dey lower than di suburbs for dis list.
Hot spot for di area: Red Rooster Harlem na popular Black-owned restaurant wey dey serve up delicious soul food. Dem also get live music for di weekends. (redroosterharlem.com) π½οΈπΆ
Well-known residents, past and present: Harlem don produce plenty notable figures including Langston Hughes, Maya Angelou, Marcus Garvey, Billie Holiday, and more πππ€
So, whether na di glamour of Los Angeles or di rich cultural heritage of Harlem, dis elite predominantly Black communities dey showcase di achievements and success of di melanated, moneyed set. E show say even in di face of adversity and segregation, di Black community don create spaces wey dey celebrate dia culture, wealth, and accomplishments. E dey important to recognize and appreciate di impact and contributions of dis elite Black communities for di larger narrative of Black excellence and achievement πͺπ½ππ‘.
NOW IN BLACK AMERICAN SLANG
π₯ποΈ Some of the Elite Predominantly Black Communities in America
From a classy hood that used to be a plantation to “The Black Beverly Hills,” these neighborhoods be home to the melanated, moneyed crew, know what I’m sayin’? π°π
TV shows like “Our Kind of People,” “Harlem,” and “The Real Housewives of Potomac” been givin’ us a sneak peek into the lives of the melanated elite every week. They be showin’ us the flyest cribs, backyards, and hangouts of the cream of the crop. This spotlight on successful Black professionals, business owners, and their heirs got everybody wonderin’ where the wealthiest Black folks live and invest. What are the most ballin’ Black communities in America? And what’s the real deal of livin’ in ’em?
These all-Black neighborhoods popped up ’cause of messed up housing laws that were based on race. They forced Black folks with money to buy homes to gather in specific areas. Even the rich got treated unfairly, but still, elite Black communities rose up and still thrive today, you feel me? πΌπ
Los Angeles County got a few bougie neighborhoods, but one that stands out is Baldwin Hills. It’s like “The Black Beverly Hills,” attractin’ actors and musicians left and right, makin’ it a Black celebrity hotspot. And you can’t forget about Prince George’s County, Maryland, and the influential Black suburb of Washington, D.C. that gets the spotlight on “The Real Housewives of Potomac.” Then there’s Harlem in New York City, the place to be for art and fashion, as seen on the Starz hit show “Run the World.” We also gonna peep Olympia Fields, Illinois. And don’t sleep on Cedar Hills, Texas, and Wheatley Heights and Hillcrest, New York, they got somethin’ goin’ on too, ya heard? ππͺ
View ParkβWindsor Hills, Los Angeles County, California ππ
History: View ParkβWindsor Hills holds it down as one of the richest Black communities in the U.S. It even made it to the National Register of Historic Places. It’s the hometown of the talented producer-actor Issa Rae and served as the inspiration for her HBO drama “Insecure,” representin’ single Black life in L.A. On the show, she shines a light on the sexy and stylish side of Black neighborhoods, keepin’ it real, you know what I’m sayin’? π¬π
Neighborhood vibe: Besides the sick views of downtown, this chill and laid-back neighborhood got “a whole range of architectural styles,” says Steven Lott, an architect and long-time resident who knows what’s up. This place got that peaceful, tranquil vibe, makin’ it the perfect spot to kick back and relax. π’π«
What locals love: Lott appreciates the connection with the vibrant arts scene in the adjacent Black village of Leimert Park, as well as the rich heritage of the area. This place even hosted the Olympic Village during the 1932 Olympics, history in the makin’ right there, ya feel me? π¨ποΈ
Local hot spot: Simply Wholesome is a Black-owned joint servin’ up healthy eats and groovy market vibes. You might even spot a celeb while you grab a bite, so keep your eyes peeled, my friend. (simplywholesome.com) π₯π±
Well-known residents, past and present: We talkinbout Doria Ragland, Meghan, Duchess of Sussex’s mama; Debbie Allen; Ray Charles; Ike Turner; Tina Turner; Nancy Wilson; Regina King; Issa Rae, and more. These stars been makin’ their mark in this fly community ππ
Baldwin Hills, Los Angeles County, California π΄π
History: Baldwin Hills holds it down as the biggest middle- and upper-class Black community in L.A. They call it “The Black Beverly Hills” ’cause all them actors and musicians be flockin’ to this place. It even had its moment in the spotlight with the BET show “Baldwin Hills” back in 2007. You know they doin’ big things here. π₯π
Neighborhood vibe: It’s all love in this friendly and peaceful community, known for its jaw-droppin’ views of the ocean, downtown, and snow-capped mountains. Sheila Coates, a brand strategist and a homeowner for 27 years, can vouch for that. She knows what’s up when it comes to the good vibes and scenery of this place. ποΈβοΈ
What locals love: The mix of homeowners in this area is off the charts. You got famous entertainers, politicians, executives, and entrepreneurs all callin’ this place home. Plus, it’s just a stone’s throw away from downtown, LAX, Beverly Hills, and the beaches. Talk about prime location, right? And let’s not forget the Kenneth Hahn State Park nearby, with its trails, bike-to-the-beach paths, and breathtaking scenic overlooks. Nature’s playground right in your backyard. πποΈ
Local hot spot: Post & Beam is where you wanna be if you’re lookin’ for upscale soul food with a Black-owned touch. And who knows, you might even catch a glimpse of a celeb or a boss while you’re there. (postandbeamla.com) π½οΈπ₯
Well-known residents, past and present: Ice Cube, the King of Gospel James Cleveland, former Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley, and musician Lenny Kravitz, who grew up in this hood. They ain’t playin’ around, they makin’ moves ππ€
Ladera Heights, Los Angeles County, California π΄π‘
History: This place got the views too, borderin’ Baldwin Hills to the north, View Park to the east, and Inglewood to the south. It’s all about that prime location, ya heard?
Neighborhood vibe: Doris Henderson, a retired teacher, and her husband, Franklin, an electrical engineer, chose this peaceful and picturesque neighborhood 48 years ago. They knew they found their slice of heaven right here.
What locals love: The sense of community is strong in this hood. Everybody lookin’ out for each other, takin’ care of their homes and the beautiful neighborhood. Doris Henderson knows she couldn’t have made it through the tough times of the COVID-19 lockdown without the support and love of her neighbors. That’s what it’s all about, fam.
Local hot spot: The New Townhouse is where you go for good food and good vibes. It’s a Black-owned spot where you can grub and hit the dance floor, all in one place. (thenewtownhousela.com) π½οΈπ
Well-known residents, past and present: We talkin’ about Vanessa Williams, WNBA’s Lisa Leslie, attorney Christopher Darden, and rapper Tyler, the Creator. These stars bring the heat to this hood ππ΅
Mitchellville and Woodmore, Prince George’s County, Maryland π‘π³
History: Mitchellville got its name from the plantation owners who once owned the land. But now, it’s a thriving Black community, replacing tobacco farms with beautiful homes. And don’t forget about Woodmore, one of the premier gated communities in the D.C. suburbs. They even got a fancy Country Club at Woodmore, with upscale single-family homes spread across six themed villages. It’s all about that luxury, you know what I’m sayin’? π°ποΈ
Neighborhood vibe: Clean, quiet, and green, that’s the deal in this area. Tree-lined streets, open spaces, and a championship golf course to top it all off. It’s the perfect spot for sports stars, CEOs, and entrepreneurs to call home. And let’s not forget about the drama-filled ladies of “The Real Housewives of Potomac” puttin’ this place on the map. Big houses, fancy cars, and designer threads, that’s the norm for some of these folks. Living here is all about prestige, baby. ππΌ
What locals love: It’s all about the grandeur of this place. Stunning homes, a country club, an Arnold Palmer Golf Course, tennis courts, pools, and lawns so pristine they look like works of art. George DuBose III, a Realtor and long-time resident, knows the deal. And Marva Jo Campo, an attorney and community activist, talks about the sense of belonging and pride in the culture that living here instills in her daughters. That’s that powerful energy, right there. ππΎ
Local hot spot: Milk & Honey Express is where you go for some delicious brunch. It’s a Black-owned spot in nearby Glenarden that’ll satisfy your cravings. (milkandhoneyexpress.com) π½οΈπ
Well-known residents, past and present: From American ballet dancer Sydney Magruder Washington to Minnesota Lynx guard Lindsay Allen, this place attracts some big names. And let’s not forget about D.C. United defender Chris Odoi-Atsem, Arkansas Razorbacks guard Chris Lykes, and entrepreneur Lance London. They makin’ moves, baby. πππ
Kettering, Prince George’s County, Maryland ποΈπ³
History: Kettering holds it down as a mostly middle-class Black enclave in Upper Marlboro. It’s all about them modest-sized homes and townhomes in this area.
Neighborhood vibe: It’s safe, quiet, and family-friendly. Van Glenn, a federal government HR exec, knows what’s up. When he moved here, the homes were affordable and still are compared to the crazy D.C. market. That’s a win right there.
What locals love: The sense of community is strong in Kettering. Neighbors look out for each other, and they all know each other. It’s all about convenience too, with easy access to the metro and the beltway to get into D.C. quick. That’s that smooth livin’, my friend.
Local hot spot: Jasper’s Restaurant is the spot for a lively brunch in nearby Largo, Maryland. It used to be the old BET soundstage, transformed into a place where good food and good times come together. (jaspersrestaurants.com) π½οΈπΆ
Well-known residents, past and present: Not many big names in this area. It’s mostly favored by low-key government employees in Washington, D.C. They keep it low-key but still live in style. π΄οΈποΈ
Harlem, New York City πHistory: Harlem been holdin’ it down as a creative hub since the Harlem Renaissance of the ’20s and ’30s. Today, it’s a mecca for art and fashion. The Starz show “Run the World” be takin’ over the streets of Harlem, with iconic stylist Patricia Field bringin’ the heat. And let’s not forget about Harlem’s Fashion Row, attractin’ fashion’s elite like Anna Wintour, Tom Ford, Tommy Hilfiger, and Harlem’s own Bevy Smith. This place got the swag, no doubt. π¨π
Neighborhood vibe: Harlem is the essence of Black culture, past and present. Even with all the gentrification goin’ on, Bevy Smith knows Harlem is her heart. Black art, culture, museums, and fashion, it’s all right here. Harlem represents the soul of Black America. You’ll find people from all walks of life, from the OGs to the new generation. It’s a mix of renovated row houses and public housing, reflectin’ the rich history and the challenges we face. This place got character, no doubt about that.
What locals love: Harlem gave Bevy Smith the world. It opened doors, expanded horizons, and showed her what’s possible. It’s a place where dreams come alive. And yeah, buyers snatchin’ up row houses to renovate, but most residents are renters, keepin’ the community diverse and vibrant. It’s not your average suburb, but Harlem got its own flavor, ya feel me?
Local hot spot: Red Rooster Harlem is where you go for some soulful vibes and good eats. It’s a Black-owned restaurant bringin’ the flavor to the neighborhood. And who knows, you might spot some familiar faces while you’re there. (redroosterharlem.com) π½οΈπΆ
Well-known residents, past and present: Harlem been home to legends like Langston Hughes, Maya Angelou, Marcus Garvey, Billie Holiday, and so many more. This place birthed greatness, and it continues to inspire and uplift. Harlem got that star power. πππ€
So, whether you’re chillin’ in the luxurious neighborhoods of Los Angeles, vibin’ in the elegant communities of Maryland, or immersin’ yourself in the rich culture of Harlem, these Black communities represent excellence, success, and the power of our people. It’s all about celebrating the achievements, building legacies, and creatin’ spaces where Black excellence can thrive. Keep shinin’ and keep pushin’, my people. We got this. πͺπ½ππ‘
NOW IN ENGLISH
ποΈππ₯ Some of the Most Elite Predominantly Black Communities in America
From a high-class neighborhood that was once a plantation to “The Black Beverly Hills,” these neighborhoods are home to the melanated, moneyed set π°π.
Hit television shows about Black elite life like “Our Kind of People,” “Harlem,” and “The Real Housewives of Potomac” have given us a weekly glimpse into the living rooms, backyards, and playgrounds of the melanated, moneyed set. This spotlight on well-heeled Black professionals, business owners, and their heirs has sparked interest in the lifestyles of the Black elite. Where do the wealthiest Black people find and invest in community? What are some of the most affluent Black enclaves in America, and what is it really like to live in them? πΊπ π€
All-Black neighborhoods proliferated due to race-based restrictive housing laws, which forced Blacks who had the money to buy homes to cluster in distinct areas. Even the rich were redlined, resulting in elite Black communities that still thrive today. Los Angeles County has a few affluent neighborhoods, most notably Baldwin Hills, a Black celebrity haven dubbed “The Black Beverly Hills” π΄π. There’s also Prince George’s County, Maryland, and the influential Black suburb of Washington, D.C., that’s featured on “The Real Housewives of Potomac,” and we can’t forget the arts hamlet of Harlem, in New York City, glamorized on the hit Starz drama “Run the World.” Other bougie enclaves we’ll explore include Olympia Fields, Illinois. Some honorable mentions: Cedar Hills, Texas, and Wheatley Heights and Hillcrest, New York ππΌ.
View ParkβWindsor Hills, Los Angeles County, California ππ
History: View ParkβWindsor Hills is one of the richest Black communities in the U.S. and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places π°π. It is also producer-actor Issa Rae’s hometown and the inspiration for her HBO drama “Insecure,” about Black L.A. single life. On the show, Rae intentionally features the sexy and chic side of L.A.’s Black neighborhoods π¬π.
Neighborhood vibe: Besides the stunning downtown views, this tranquil and low-key hillside neighborhood also boasts “a cornucopia of architectural styles,” says longtime resident Steven Lott, an architect and managing principal at Raw International π’π«.
What locals love: Lott appreciates its association with the vibrant cultural arts of the adjacent Black village of Leimert Park, as well as its own rich heritage: It was the site of the Olympic Village during the 1932 Olympics π¨ποΈ.
Local hot spot: Simply Wholesome is a Black-owned casual health-food restaurant and market where you might just spot a celebrity π₯π±. (simplywholesome.com)
Well-known residents, past and present: Doria Ragland, mother of Meghan, Duchess of Sussex; Debbie Allen; Ray Charles; Ike Turner; Tina Turner; Nancy Wilson; Regina King; Issa Rae ππ
Baldwin Hills, Los Angeles County, California π΄π
History: Baldwin Hills is the largest middle- and upper-class Black community in Los Angeles. Dubbed “The Black Beverly Hills” because of the actors and musicians who have flocked to it, the community found itself in the spotlight with the BET docudrama “Baldwin Hills” in 2007 π₯π.
Neighborhood vibe: It’s a friendly and quiet community “known for its spectacular views of the ocean, downtown, and snow-capped mountains,” says Sheila Coates, a brand strategist and owner of BYOB (byobunlimited.com), who has owned her home for 27 years ποΈβοΈ.
What locals love: The rich cultural mix of homeowners that includes famous entertainers, politicians, executives, and entrepreneurs. Also, the closeness to downtown, LAX, Beverly Hills, and the beaches. “We are walking distance to Kenneth Hahn State Park’s hiking trails, bike-to-the-beach paths, and stunning scenic overlooks,” says Coates πποΈ.
Local hot spot: Post & Beam is a Black-owned restaurant that features an upscale take on soul food. Diners may spot a celeb or CEO. (postandbeamla.com) π½οΈπ₯
Well-known residents, past and present: Ice Cube, the King of Gospel James Cleveland, former Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley, and musician Lenny Kravitz, who grew up here ππ€
Ladera Heights, Los Angeles County, California π΄π‘
History: Also with stunning views, it shares a border to the north with Baldwin Hills, to the east with View Park, and to the south with Inglewood π΄ποΈ.
Neighborhood vibe: Doris Henderson, a retired teacher, and her husband, Franklin, an electrical engineer, originally chose this quiet, picturesque neighborhood 48 years ago.
What locals love: “Our neighbors care not only for their homes and their beautiful neighborhood, but deeply for each other,” says Doris Henderson. She adds that the couple can’t imagine how they would have made it through the COVID-19 lockdown without the help of their loving neighbors.
Local hot spot: The New Townhouse is a Black-owned restaurant and nightclub where you can eat and dance. (thenewtownhousela.com) π½οΈπ
Well-known residents, past and present: Vanessa Williams, WNBA’s Lisa Leslie, attorney Christopher Darden, and rapper Tyler, the Creator ππ΅
Mitchellville and Woodmore, Prince George’s County, Maryland π‘π³
History: Mitchellville is named after the owners of the plantation that it was built on. Today, tobacco farms are replaced by a thriving Black residential community. Overlapping Woodmore is one of the premier gated communities in the Washington, D.C., suburbs. Built around the Country Club at Woodmore, the community has upscale single-family homes within six themed villages π°ποΈ.
Neighborhood vibe: The area is clean and quiet, with tree-lined streets, sprawling green spaces, and a championship golf course. It is home to sports stars, CEOs, and entrepreneurs. The drama-filled ladies of The Real Housewives of Potomac have drawn attention to PG County, showing us that extra-large homes, luxury cars, and designer clothes and shoes are the norm for some here. “Living here definitely has prestige,” says George DuBose III, a Realtor and a 24-year resident ππΌ.
What locals love: “We have large, stunning homes here along with a country club, a signature Arnold Palmer Golf Course, clay tennis courts, swimming pools, manicured and pristine lawns, and long driveways,” says DuBose. Attorney and community activist Marva Jo Campo points to “the sense of belonging, a pride in our culture, a self-awareness that my daughters have because of living here that can take them anywhere in the world” ππΎ.
Local hot spot: Milk & HoneyExpress is a Black-owned brunch spot in nearby Glenarden. (milkandhoneyexpress.com) π₯β
Well-known residents, past and present: American ballet dancer, activist, and actress Sydney Magruder Washington; Minnesota Lynx guard Lindsay Allen; D.C. United defender Chris Odoi-Atsem; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Chris Lykes; and entrepreneur and restaurant chain owner Lance London πππ
Kettering, Prince George’s County, Maryland ποΈπ³
History: Kettering is an Upper Marlboro mostly middle-class Black enclave, with a mix of modest-sized homes and townhomes.
Neighborhood vibe: It’s safe, quiet, family-friendly, and affordable. “When I moved here, the homes were affordable and still are, relative to the D.C. market,” says Van Glenn, a federal government human resources executive.
What locals love: “My neighbors are all friendly, and we know each other and look out for one another. It’s very convenient to everything in the area with easy access to the metro and the beltway [to get] into D.C. quickly,” says Glenn.
Local hot spot: The old BET soundstage has been transformed into Jasper’s Restaurant, a lively place for brunch in Largo, Maryland, one mile from Kettering. (jaspersrestaurants.com) π½οΈπ
Well-known residents, past and present: Not many. The area is favored by low-key Washington, D.C., government employees π΄οΈποΈ.
Harlem, New York City ππ
History: Harlem has been a creative mecca since the 1920s and ’30s Harlem Renaissance. Today, Harlem is an art and fashion mecca. The fiercely fashionable Starz show Run the World is filmed on its streets, styled by icon Patricia Field (Sex and the City). And during New York Fashion Week last year, Harlem’s Fashion Row’s summit attracted fashion’s elite like Anna Wintour, designers Tom Ford and Tommy Hilfiger, and Harlem native, Bevelations author, and radio and television host Bevy Smith π¨π.
Neighborhood vibe: “The Black Harlem experience is my experience, even with gentrification,” says Smith. “Black art, culture, museums, fashion β it’s all here. Harlem is the cornerstone of Black America.” You’ll find folks from all walks of life here. While buyers are snapping up row houses to renovate, most residents are renters, and there is a high density of public housing. These factors are reflected in high home prices for the urban oasis, though residents’ average income is lower than the suburbs on this list.
What locals love: “The world was open to me growing up here…,” says Smith. “Black art, culture, museums, fashion β it’s all here. Harlem is the cornerstone of Black America.” You’ll find folks from all walks of life here. While buyers are snapping up row houses to renovate, most residents are renters, and there is a high density of public housing. These factors are reflected in high home prices for the urban oasis, though residents’ average income is lower than the suburbs on this list.
Hot spot for the area: Red Rooster Harlem is a popular Black-owned restaurant that serves up delicious soul food. They also feature live music on the weekends. (redroosterharlem.com) π½οΈπΆ
Well-known residents, past and present: Harlem has produced many notable figures including Langston Hughes, Maya Angelou, Marcus Garvey, Billie Holiday, and more πππ€
So, whether it’s theglamour of Los Angeles or the rich cultural heritage of Harlem, these elite predominantly Black communities showcase the achievements and success of the melanated, moneyed set. It shows that even in the face of adversity and segregation, the Black community has created spaces that celebrate their culture, wealth, and accomplishments. It is important to recognize and appreciate the impact and contributions of these elite Black communities in the larger narrative of Black excellence and achievement πͺπ½ππ‘.