While a predominantly African-American community, there are small minorities of Hispanics and South Asians residing in the area.

[14] In 2018, an estimated 20% of Hollis and Jamaica residents lived in poverty, compared to 19% in all of Queens and 20% in all of New York City.

Based on this calculation, as of 2018[update], Hollis and Jamaica are considered to be high-income relative to the rest of the city and not gentrifying.

[11]: 14 The concentration of fine particulate matter, the deadliest type of air pollutant, in Hollis and Jamaica is 0.007 milligrams per cubic metre (7.0×10−9 oz/cu ft), less than the city average.

[21] Hollis and Jamaica generally have a lower rate of college-educated residents than the rest of the city as of 2018[update].

[11]: 6  The percentage of Hollis and Jamaica students excelling in math rose from 36% in 2000 to 55% in 2011, and reading achievement increased slightly from 44% to 45% during the same time period.

[22] Hollis and Jamaica's rate of elementary school student absenteeism is more than the rest of New York City.

[12]: 24 (PDF p. 55) [11]: 6  Additionally, 74% of high school students in Hollis and Jamaica graduate on time, about the same as the citywide average of 75%.

[32] The Archer Avenue lines were supposed to be extended to Hollis as part of Program for Action, a never-completed New York City Subway expansion in 1988.

Later, the plaque for that commemoration was removed and placed in an unknown location in the 1950s when the character of the neighborhood changed to predominantly African-american, co-incident with White flight.

The painting of the rock in red, black, and green, the colors of the Pan-African flag, represents the community's commitment to civil rights, group identity, and fostering ties between all people of African descent.

The location of the rock, at the intersection of St. Albans, Hollis, and Jamaica, highlights its significance as a shared symbol for the entire community.

The Liberty Rock serves as a symbol of resistance and resilience, reminding the community of its rich cultural heritage and ongoing struggle for equality and justice.

I got the idea from a small rock that was painted Red, Black and Green in the square located at 122nd & Farmers Blvd, That's the real story."

[35] At the time, the Liberty Rock was located in a predominantly minority neighborhood and served as an eyesore and gathering place for winos across from a local liquor store.

The residents decided to clean up the area, including the Liberty Rock, and paint it with the support of local businesses.

Other notable residents include: Hollis was also home to many African American jazz musicians by the 1950s according to The New York Times.