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Demographic Analysis of Benton, Arkansas: A Study of Racial Composition and Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
DATA SOURCE
United States Census Bureau: American Community Survey Data (ACS)
Benton, Arkansas, as of 2022, is classified as a Low Diversity community with a White Majority. The city's population is 39,360, with a median income of $70,231. This classification is based on the white population comprising 82% of the total, exceeding the 75% threshold for Low Diversity.
Over the past decade, Benton has maintained its Low Diversity status with a White Majority. However, subtle shifts indicate a gradual increase in diversity. The white population decreased from 87% in 2013 to 82% in 2022. The black population increased from 5% to 8% during this period. The Hispanic population remained stable at 3-4%. The Asian population increased slightly from 0% to 2%. The population identifying as two or more races grew from 1% to 4%.
These demographic shifts correlate with economic trends. The median income increased from $63,887 in 2013 to $70,231 in 2022, a growth of about 10%. The population grew from 34,319 in 2013 to 39,360 in 2022, an increase of about 14.7%. The simultaneous increase in population and median income suggests economic growth, which may be attracting a more diverse population.
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Many small to medium-sized cities across the United States have been experiencing similar trends of gradual diversification. The growth in median income is consistent with national trends of economic recovery and growth following the 2008 recession.
Based on observed trends, Benton will likely continue its gradual transition towards greater diversity. If current trends persist, the city may transition from Low Diversity to Moderate Diversity within the next 5-10 years. The white population may decrease to around 75-78% by 2030. The black and Hispanic populations may continue to grow, possibly reaching 10% and 5% respectively. The population identifying as two or more races may continue its rapid growth, potentially reaching 6-8% by 2030.
Economically, if the trend continues, the median income could reach $75,000-$80,000 by 2030, assuming steady growth. The population might exceed 45,000 by that time. These changes could potentially lead to Benton being categorized as a Transitional Community in the near future, as it moves away from its historically low diversity status towards a more mixed demographic profile.
