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Demographic Analysis of Barker Neighborhood: White Majority and Racial Composition
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Barker neighborhood in Lawrence, Kansas exhibits a low diversity demographic profile with a white majority of 91% as of 2022. The neighborhood has experienced economic growth over the past decade, with the median income increasing from $37,859 in 2013 to $65,878 in 2022, a 74% increase. Barker's proximity to the University of Kansas likely influences its demographic composition and economic characteristics.
From 2013 to 2022, the Barker neighborhood maintained its status as a white majority area. The white population percentage increased from 80% in 2013 to 91% in 2022. The Hispanic population decreased from 8% in 2013 to 3% in 2022. The percentage of residents identifying as two or more races fluctuated, peaking at 7% in 2014 but decreasing to 3% by 2022. These changes indicate a trend towards lower diversity over the decade.
The economic trajectory of the Barker neighborhood shows a correlation with its demographic shifts. As the white majority increased, the median income rose from $37,859 in 2013 to $65,878 in 2022. The most significant income increase occurred between 2014 and 2015, coinciding with an increase in the white population percentage from 79% to 82%. The population remained relatively stable, suggesting that income growth was not solely due to an influx of new residents.
The trends observed in the Barker neighborhood align with some national patterns but diverge in others. The increasing median income reflects a national trend of economic growth following the 2008 recession. However, the neighborhood's shift towards lower diversity contrasts with many urban areas across the US that have been experiencing increasing diversity. The stable population numbers, despite rising incomes, may indicate limited housing expansion.
The presence of the University of Kansas likely plays a role in shaping these trends. College towns often experience unique demographic and economic patterns influenced by student populations, faculty demographics, and university-related economic activities.
The Barker neighborhood has evolved over the past decade into an increasingly homogeneous, predominantly white community with rising economic prosperity. This trend raises questions about inclusivity, affordability, and the long-term social dynamics of the area, especially in the context of a university town.
