Loading Content...
Demographic Analysis of Bentley, Illinois: A Study in Racial Homogeneity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Bentley, Illinois, is a small community with a population of 211 as of 2022. The town is categorized as "Low Diversity," with a white population comprising 98-100% of the total over the past decade. The median income has increased from $42,500 in 2013 to $68,571 in 2022, indicating economic growth for this predominantly white community.
Bentley has maintained its status as a "Low Diversity" community from 2013 to 2022. The racial composition has remained stable, with the white population consistently above 98%. Minor variations occurred in 2013-2014 with 1-2% of residents identifying as two or more races, and in 2019-2020 when a 1% Hispanic population appeared.
Despite the lack of demographic change, there has been a notable increase in median income. From 2013 to 2022, the median income grew by approximately 61%, from $42,500 to $68,571. This growth occurred without significant change in racial composition, suggesting other factors may be driving this trend.
The population has fluctuated over the years, with a low of 127 in 2013 and a high of 252 in 2018, before stabilizing around 200-210 in recent years. This population stability, combined with rising incomes, may indicate a maturing community with improving economic prospects.
Bentley's persistent low diversity contrasts with many other areas that have experienced demographic shifts. However, the significant increase in median income aligns with broader national trends of economic recovery and growth following the 2008 recession.
Based on observed trends, Bentley is likely to remain in the "Low Diversity" category. The consistency of its racial composition over the past decade suggests a stable community with little inward migration from diverse groups.
Economically, if the trend of increasing median income continues, further improvements in the financial well-being of residents may occur. This could potentially lead to increased property values and local infrastructure investments.
Without significant changes in factors that could drive diversity, it is unlikely that Bentley will transition to a new demographic category in the near future. The most probable scenario is a continuation of its current status as a low-diversity, economically improving small town.
