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Demographic Analysis of Eastown: A White Majority Neighborhood with Increasing Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Eastown, a neighborhood in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is characterized as a White Majority community with moderate diversity. As of 2022, the white population constitutes 77% of residents, with increasing representation from other racial groups. Eastown is known for its arts scene and local businesses, contributing to its distinct character within Grand Rapids.
Over the past decade, Eastown has maintained its status as a White Majority community, with fluctuations in demographic composition. The percentage of white residents has remained relatively stable, ranging between 73% and 81% from 2013 to 2022. The black population showed variability, peaking at 18% in 2016 but decreasing to 8% by 2022. The Hispanic population declined from 8% in 2013 to 2% in 2018-2019, but rebounded to 7% in 2022. The percentage of residents identifying as two or more races increased from 1% in 2013 to 5% in 2022, indicating a gradual trend towards greater diversity.
The demographic shifts in Eastown correlate with significant economic changes. From 2013 to 2022, the median income rose from $61,023 to $79,570, a 30% increase. This growth suggests gentrification or an influx of higher-income residents. Despite the overall upward trend, there were notable fluctuations, with a peak of $92,802 in 2021 followed by a sharp decrease in 2022. The population has remained relatively stable, growing only slightly from 5,848 in 2013 to 5,361 in 2022.
Eastown's demographic and economic trends align with broader patterns seen in many urban neighborhoods across the United States. The substantial increase in median income, coupled with the maintenance of a white majority and slight increases in diversity, is characteristic of gentrifying neighborhoods in many American cities. The gradual increase in racial diversity, particularly in the multiracial category, reflects national trends of increasing racial and ethnic diversity in urban areas. Despite national economic challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, Eastown's median income has continued to rise, suggesting a degree of economic resilience or insulation from broader economic shocks.
Eastown represents a neighborhood in transition, maintaining its White Majority status while slowly becoming more diverse and significantly more affluent. These changes likely affect the neighborhood's character, local businesses, and community dynamics. The coming years will be crucial in determining whether Eastown continues on this path of gradual diversification and economic growth or experiences more dramatic shifts in its demographic and economic landscape.
