Demographic Analysis of 90403 Zip Code: White Majority with Increasing Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
DATA SOURCE
The 90403 zip code in Santa Monica, California, is classified as a "White Majority" community with moderate diversity as of 2022. The area has a population of 23,540 and a median household income of $120,331, indicating a relatively affluent neighborhood. The white population constitutes 71% of the total, with significant Hispanic (12%) and Asian (8%) minorities.
Over the past decade, this zip code has maintained its status as a "White Majority" area. However, there are indications of a gradual shift towards increased diversity. The white population has decreased from 80% in 2013 to 71% in 2022. The Hispanic population has grown from 7% in 2013 to 12% in 2022. The Asian population has remained relatively stable at around 9-10%. The percentage of residents identifying as two or more races has increased from 2% to 5%.
The median household income has shown significant growth over the decade. In 2013, the median income was $91,021. By 2022, it had increased to $120,331, representing a 32% growth over nine years. This substantial income growth correlates with the demographic shifts, potentially indicating an influx of higher-income residents from diverse backgrounds, economic advancement of existing minority populations, and the area becoming increasingly attractive to affluent professionals from various ethnic groups.
The population has remained relatively stable (24,158 in 2013 to 23,540 in 2022), suggesting that the demographic changes are more likely due to gradual replacements rather than a significant influx of new residents.
The trends observed in this Santa Monica zip code align with broader patterns seen in many affluent coastal California communities. These include gradual diversification of traditionally white-majority areas, significant income growth outpacing national averages, and stable or slightly declining population, possibly due to high housing costs limiting new entrants. These changes reflect larger societal shifts towards increased diversity in high-income urban and suburban areas, particularly in technology and entertainment hubs like the greater Los Angeles area.
In conclusion, while the 90403 zip code in Santa Monica remains a "White Majority" area, it shows clear signs of transitioning towards greater diversity. This demographic evolution, coupled with strong economic growth, suggests a dynamic community that is slowly becoming more representative of California's multicultural landscape. The challenge for the future may lie in maintaining this trajectory of increased diversity while addressing potential issues of affordability and inclusion in such a high-income area.
