Loading Content...
Ball State University Neighborhood: Population Density and Demographic Trends from 2010 to 2022
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Population Density
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Population Density
The Ball State University neighborhood in Muncie, Indiana, is classified as a Light Urban Neighborhood. In 2022, the population density was 9,751.08 people per square mile. This density is consistent with an area featuring a combination of low to mid-rise apartments, primarily serving a student population.
Population data from 2010 to 2022 shows variations in both population and density. The neighborhood reached its highest population in 2010 with 6,501 residents and a density of 11,374.8 people per square mile. Subsequently, a general downward trend was observed, with occasional slight increases. The 2022 data indicates a population of 5,573, the lowest in the observed period.
The population decline may be attributed to factors specific to a university neighborhood. These factors could include changes in enrollment patterns, shifts to online learning, or modifications in student housing policies. The COVID-19 pandemic, beginning in 2020, likely contributed significantly to the recent sharp decline, as many universities in the United States experienced reduced on-campus presence during this time.
Despite the overall decrease, the neighborhood maintains a high population density, indicating a compact living environment typical of areas near major universities. The estimated 2,135 housing units in 2022 further support this urban character, likely comprising a mix of student dormitories, apartments, and shared houses.
Ball State University, known for programs in architecture, telecommunications, and education, significantly influences the neighborhood's characteristics. The area likely includes amenities suited to student life, such as cafes, bookstores, and recreational facilities. The high density and student-centric environment probably contribute to a vibrant, youthful atmosphere focused on education and campus activities.
The population fluctuations over the years suggest a dynamic neighborhood sensitive to changes in university policies, enrollment, and broader societal trends affecting higher education. Future observations will determine whether the population returns to previous levels or if new trends in education and student living arrangements lead to sustained changes in the neighborhood's demographic profile.
