THE CHANGING FACE OF SOUTH FLORIDA

According to U.S. Census Bureau figures released last week, Broward County saw more black residents relocate there last year than any other county in America.

During the 12 months ending July 1, 2004, the Census Bureau estimates that 17,900 blacks relocated to Broward, much larger than that of Gwinnett County, Georgia in suburban Atlanta, which was second. The increase makes Broward County's population around 25 percent black.

The reasons: Much the same as why others come to the area. Better schools, better jobs, and the weather. While many of the newcomers are Carribean immigrants such as those from Haiti, a number are relocating from the northern tier states.

Demographers are predicting that within five years, Broward will become a "minority majority" county, where Hispanic and black residents will outnumber whites.

Today's Miami Herald takes a look at this growth and what it means to the area.