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Demographic Analysis of Emporia, Kansas: White Majority with Growing Hispanic Population
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Emporia, Kansas, is categorized as a "White Majority" city with moderate diversity. As of 2022, the white population comprises 65% of the total, with a Hispanic population of 26%. The city's median income was $50,408 in 2022, with a population of 26,154 spread over 12.25 square miles.
Over the past decade, Emporia has maintained its status as a "White Majority" city, but has been transitioning towards increased diversity. The white population has decreased from 68% in 2013 to 65% in 2022, while the Hispanic population has grown from 24% to 26%. This gradual shift suggests Emporia is becoming a "Transitional Community," moving towards greater diversity.
The proportion of residents identifying as two or more races has doubled from 2% to 4% between 2013 and 2022, further supporting the transitional nature of the community. The Black and Asian populations have remained relatively stable at 2% each.
Emporia's median income has shown overall growth, rising from $42,998 in 2013 to $50,408 in 2022, an increase of about 17%. However, this growth has not been consistent, with a notable peak of $54,914 in 2021 before declining in 2022.
The population has been on a gradual decline, dropping from 27,340 in 2013 to 26,154 in 2022, a decrease of about 4.3%. This population decrease, coupled with the increasing diversity and fluctuating income levels, suggests a complex interplay of economic and demographic factors.
Emporia's trends align with broader patterns seen in many small to mid-sized American cities. The increasing diversity, particularly growth in Hispanic and multiracial populations, reflects national demographic shifts. The fluctuating income levels and declining population may indicate economic challenges common to many Midwestern cities transitioning from traditional industries.
Based on the observed trends, Emporia is likely to continue its trajectory as a "Transitional Community." If current patterns persist, we can expect further diversification, with the white majority potentially decreasing and approaching the threshold where Emporia transitions from a "White Majority" to a "White Plurality" city within the next decade.
The Hispanic population may continue to increase, potentially reaching 30% or more of the total population. The "two or more races" category is likely to continue growing, reflecting national trends in multiracial identity.
Given the recent income volatility, Emporia may experience continued economic challenges, potentially impacting its ability to retain residents. The consistent population decline may continue unless economic opportunities improve, potentially leading to further demographic shifts.
Emporia appears to be on a path towards becoming a more diverse, "Moderate Diversity" community. However, economic factors will play a crucial role in determining whether this diversification leads to a thriving, integrated community or faces challenges related to population decline and economic instability. City leaders should focus on inclusive economic development strategies to leverage the growing diversity as an asset for future growth and stability.
