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Demographic Analysis of Dolton, Illinois: Predominantly Black Population and Low Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Dolton, Illinois, exhibits a demographic profile characterized by low diversity and a clear racial majority. As of 2022, the city is categorized as "Black Majority," with 90% of the population identifying as Black. This demographic composition has remained stable over the past decade, indicating an established community structure. The city has experienced fluctuations in median income, with recent years showing some improvement.
Over the past decade, Dolton has consistently maintained its status as a "Black Majority" community, with the Black population consistently representing around 90% of the total. This stability suggests a deeply rooted community with limited demographic change. There have been slight variations in other racial groups, but these changes have been minimal and have not significantly altered the overall demographic landscape.
The median income in Dolton has shown fluctuations over the years, with an increase from $47,327 in 2019 to $53,880 in 2021, followed by a decrease to $48,400 in 2022. This volatility in income levels suggests economic challenges within the community. The population has steadily declined from 23,917 in 2010 to 21,128 in 2022, indicating a gradual outmigration trend.
The correlation between demographic stability and economic fluctuations is noteworthy. Despite the consistent racial composition, the community has faced economic challenges, as evidenced by the varying median income and declining population. This suggests that factors beyond racial demographics, such as local economic conditions or broader regional trends, may be influencing the economic well-being of Dolton residents.
The demographic stability of Dolton contrasts with national trends towards increasing diversity in many urban and suburban areas. The persistent Black majority in Dolton may reflect historical patterns of racial segregation or community preferences that have remained stable over time. The economic fluctuations and population decline observed in Dolton are consistent with challenges faced by many smaller communities, particularly those in the Midwest, which have struggled with deindustrialization and changing economic landscapes.
Based on the observed trends, it is likely that Dolton will maintain its status as a "Black Majority" community in the near future. The consistency of this demographic profile over the past decade suggests deeply entrenched community structures that are resistant to rapid change. Economically, the recent uptick in median income followed by a decline in 2022 makes future predictions uncertain. If this volatility continues, the community may face ongoing economic challenges. The persistent population decline is a concerning trend that may continue unless there are significant changes in local economic opportunities or quality of life factors that could attract new residents or retain current ones.
While a dramatic shift in racial demographics seems unlikely, the community might gradually transition towards a "Moderate Diversity" category if current minor increases in other racial groups continue and accelerate. However, this would be a long-term process given the current demographic stability. Dolton presents a case of demographic stability amidst economic fluctuations. The challenge for the community moving forward will be to leverage its strong cultural identity to address economic challenges and potentially reverse the trend of population decline.
