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Demographic Analysis of Carthage, Illinois: A Study of Racial Composition and Economic Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Carthage, Illinois, is classified as a Low Diversity community with a White Majority. As of 2022, the white population comprises 92% of the total, exceeding the 75% threshold for low diversity. The city has experienced economic growth, with median income increasing from $56,408 in 2019 to $67,765 in 2022, a 20% rise over three years.
Over the past decade, Carthage has maintained its status as a Low Diversity, White Majority community. There are minor indications of increasing diversity. The white population has decreased from 98% in 2013 to 92% in 2022. The Hispanic population has grown from 0% in 2013 to 3% in 2022. The two or more races category has increased from 0% to 3% over the same period. These changes suggest a slow trend towards greater diversity, though the community remains in the Low Diversity category.
The city has experienced economic growth, particularly in recent years. Median income increased from $53,180 in 2013 to $67,765 in 2022, a 27.4% increase. A notable increase occurred between 2019 and 2021, with income rising from $56,408 to $71,628, before slightly decreasing in 2022. This economic growth coincides with the subtle increase in diversity, suggesting a possible correlation between economic opportunities and demographic changes.
Population trends show a decline from 3,490 in 2013 to 3,253 in 2022, a 6.8% decrease. This contrasts with the rising median income, indicating that while the overall population has decreased, the economic status of remaining residents has improved.
Carthage's demographic composition differs from many urban areas across the U.S. that have experienced rapid diversification. The city's slow pace of change suggests it may be more isolated from broader demographic shifts occurring in larger metropolitan areas or more diverse regions of Illinois.
Based on observed trends, Carthage is likely to continue its slow transition towards greater diversity over the next decade. However, given the current racial composition and the gradual pace of change, it is probable that Carthage will remain categorized as a Low Diversity, White Majority community for the foreseeable future.
If current trends persist, we might observe a continued slow decrease in the white population, potentially dropping below 90% in the next 5-10 years. Further increases in the Hispanic and multiracial populations, possibly reaching 5-7% each, may occur. Continued economic growth, albeit potentially at a slower rate than the sharp increases seen in recent years, is expected.
These changes are unlikely to shift Carthage into a new diversity category in the near term. However, they may establish the foundation for a potential future transition to a Moderate Diversity category over a longer timeframe, particularly if economic growth continues to attract a more diverse population.
