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Demographic Analysis of Alki: A Low Diversity Neighborhood with Increasing Racial Shifts
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Alki, a neighborhood in Seattle, Washington, is classified as a Low Diversity community with a White Majority. As of 2022, the white population constitutes 78% of the area's residents. The neighborhood has a high median income of $124,885, which is above the national average. Alki is situated on a beach and waterfront, providing views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
Over the past decade, Alki has maintained its White Majority status, but with notable changes. In 2013, the neighborhood had extremely Low Diversity, with 86% of the population identifying as white. By 2022, the white population decreased to 78%, indicating a gradual trend towards increased diversity. The most significant changes occurred between 2019 and 2020, with the Black population increasing from around 1% to 7%, a level maintained through 2022.
The Asian population increased from 3% in 2013 to 6% in 2022, while the Hispanic population fluctuated between 4% and 8% over the decade, settling at 4% in 2022. The proportion of residents identifying as two or more races increased from 3% in 2013 to 4% in 2022, with a peak of 7% in 2021. These demographic shifts have occurred alongside economic changes, with the median income rising from $98,817 in 2013 to $124,885 in 2022, representing a 26.4% increase.
The years of highest median income (2019-2021, ranging from $134,694 to $135,248) coincide with the period of increased racial diversity, particularly the rise in the Black population. The population has remained relatively stable, increasing from 7,931 in 2013 to 8,175 in 2022, a 3% growth. This suggests that the demographic changes are more likely due to turnover in existing housing rather than significant new development.
The gradual diversification of Alki aligns with trends seen in many affluent urban neighborhoods across the United States. The sudden increase in the Black population between 2019 and 2020 is notable and may require further investigation into local policies or events that could have prompted this change. The high median income and predominantly white population in Alki contrast with overall trends in Seattle, which is categorized as a Majority-Minority city as of 2020.
Alki's demographic profile is atypical within the broader context of Seattle, potentially reflecting its status as a particularly desirable and expensive neighborhood within the city. While Alki remains a Low Diversity, White Majority community, it shows signs of gradual diversification, particularly in recent years. This trend, coupled with rising median incomes, suggests a neighborhood in transition, potentially becoming more inclusive while maintaining its status as an affluent area within Seattle.
