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Demographic Analysis of Fort Benton, Montana: Low Diversity with Emerging Racial Shifts
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Fort Benton, Montana, is categorized as a "Low Diversity" area. As of 2022, the white population constitutes 86% of the total population. Recent data indicates a gradual shift towards increased diversity, potentially transitioning towards a "Transitional Community" status.
Over the past decade, Fort Benton has maintained its "Low Diversity" category. The white population has decreased from 98% in 2013 to 86% in 2022. The Hispanic population has grown from 1% in 2013 to 8% in 2022. The "Two or More Races" category has increased from 1% in 2013 to 5% in 2022. These changes suggest Fort Benton is in the early stages of transitioning from "Low Diversity" to potentially "Moderate Diversity" in the future.
The demographic shifts correlate with economic changes. Median income has increased overall, rising from $46,962 in 2013 to $58,016 in 2022. The most significant income growth occurred between 2019 and 2021, coinciding with the most rapid diversification. Population has remained relatively stable, growing slightly from 1,471 in 2013 to 1,544 in 2022. The correlation between increasing diversity and rising median income suggests that demographic changes may be linked to economic opportunities attracting a more diverse population.
The trends in Fort Benton align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in rural areas, particularly growth in Hispanic populations. However, the pace of change in Fort Benton appears slower than national averages, which is typical for small, rural communities in states like Montana.
Based on observed trends, Fort Benton is likely to continue its transition towards greater diversity over the next decade. Predictions include a continued decrease in the white population percentage, potentially dropping below 80% within the next 5-10 years; further growth in the Hispanic population, possibly reaching 12-15% by 2030; and increased representation in the "Two or More Races" category, potentially reaching 8-10%.
If these trends continue, Fort Benton may transition from "Low Diversity" to "Moderate Diversity" within the next decade. This shift could be accompanied by further increases in median income as the community becomes more diverse and potentially attracts new economic opportunities. Small communities can be sensitive to economic and social changes, and unforeseen factors could accelerate or slow these demographic shifts. The community's ability to integrate and capitalize on increasing diversity will be crucial in determining its future economic and social landscape.
