Demographic Analysis of 97266 Zip Code: Racial Composition and Diversity Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
DATA SOURCE
The 97266 zip code in Portland, Oregon, is classified as a "Moderate Diversity" area as of 2022. The white population comprises 57% of the total, just below the threshold for a "Racial Majority" classification. The area has significant Asian (17%) and Hispanic (13%) populations. The median income in 2022 was $62,660, with a population of 35,226 spread across 6.04 square miles.
Over the past decade, the zip code has maintained its "Moderate Diversity" status. The white population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 54-58% since 2013. The Asian population increased slightly from 18% in 2013 to 20% in 2019, before settling at 17% in 2022. The Hispanic population fluctuated, peaking at 17% in 2014-2016, before decreasing to 13% in 2022. The "Two or More Races" category increased from 3% in 2014 to 6% in 2022, potentially indicating a trend towards a "Transitional Community."
The median income in this zip code has shown significant growth over the decade. From 2013 to 2021, there was an increase from $43,698 to $71,591, representing a 63.8% growth. However, there was a dip in 2022 to $62,660. The population grew from 33,018 in 2013 to 35,226 in 2022, a 6.7% increase. This growth, combined with the overall trend of rising incomes, suggests an area that has been becoming more economically prosperous over time.
The periods of highest income growth (2017-2021) coincide with slight increases in the white and Asian populations and decreases in the Hispanic population. This could indicate changing neighborhood dynamics, possibly related to gentrification or shifting employment opportunities.
The trend towards increasing diversity, particularly the growth in multiracial populations, aligns with broader national trends seen in the 2020 census. The significant income growth from 2013 to 2021 outpaces national averages for the same period, suggesting this zip code has experienced stronger economic growth than many other areas. The sudden dip in median income in 2022 might reflect broader economic challenges faced nationwide, such as high inflation and economic uncertainty post-pandemic.
In conclusion, while this zip code maintains its "Moderate Diversity" status, subtle demographic shifts and significant economic changes over the past decade indicate a dynamic, evolving community. The area appears to be gradually becoming more diverse and has experienced substantial economic growth, though recent data suggests potential challenges or changes on the horizon.
