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Demographic Analysis of Carter, Montana (ZIP Code 59420): A Study of Low Racial Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The zip code 59420 in Carter, Montana, is classified as having "Low Diversity" as of 2022. The population is 97% white, with a total of 227 residents. The median income in this rural area is $64,687.
Carter has maintained its "Low Diversity" status over the past decade. The white population has remained above 95% from 2013 to 2022. A slight increase in diversity occurred, with the percentage of residents identifying as two or more races rising from 0% in 2013 to 3% in 2022. This change does not alter the area's low diversity classification.
The median income in Carter has fluctuated significantly. It decreased from $62,363 in 2013 to $54,999 in 2019, then increased sharply to $64,687 in 2020, peaked at $80,920 in 2021, and returned to $64,687 in 2022. The economic volatility does not appear to correlate with the stable racial demographics.
Population figures have remained relatively stable, ranging between 162 and 229 residents over the decade. An increase from 177 in 2019 to 229 in 2020 coincides with the start of the economic upturn, suggesting a possible influx of new residents due to improved economic conditions.
Carter's racial homogeneity is not uncommon for rural areas in Montana, one of the least diverse states in the U.S. Montana's population was approximately 87% white in 2022, making Carter's 97% white population less diverse than the state average.
The economic trends in Carter may reflect broader patterns seen in rural America during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Many rural areas experienced economic growth as people moved away from urban centers. However, the sharp increase and subsequent moderation in median income suggest this trend may have been temporary or is stabilizing.
Carter's racial demographics have remained stable despite significant economic fluctuations over the past decade. The community continues to be characterized by low diversity, with a predominantly white population. Recent economic improvements have not led to substantial changes in the racial composition of the area, though they may have attracted some new residents. Carter's demographic stability amidst economic changes presents a case study in the relationship between economic trends and racial diversity in rural America.
