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Demographic Analysis of Hagerstown, Maryland: Racial Composition and Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Hagerstown, Maryland, exhibits characteristics of a White Majority community with moderate diversity. As of 2022, the white population constitutes 64% of the total, while other racial groups, particularly Black (17%) and Hispanic (10%), have significant representation. The city's median income of $49,487 in 2022 suggests a lower-middle-income urban area.
Over the past decade, Hagerstown has been transitioning from a Low Diversity community towards a more diverse demographic makeup. In 2013, the city was in the White Majority category with 74% of the population identifying as white. By 2022, this percentage had decreased to 64%, while still maintaining a majority status.
The city is showing signs of becoming a Transitional Community. There has been a steady increase in the Hispanic population (from 5% in 2013 to 10% in 2022) and those identifying as two or more races (from 4% in 2013 to 7% in 2022). The Black population has also seen a slight increase from 15% to 17% over the same period.
The median income in Hagerstown has shown modest growth, increasing from $45,900 in 2013 to $49,487 in 2022, representing an 8% increase over nine years. This growth has not kept pace with inflation, suggesting potential economic challenges for residents.
The population has grown from 47,691 in 2013 to 50,091 in 2022, a 5% increase. This population growth, coupled with the increasing diversity, indicates that the city is attracting new residents from various racial backgrounds.
The trends observed in Hagerstown align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in small to mid-sized cities. The modest income growth and increasing racial diversity suggest that Hagerstown may be experiencing similar challenges and opportunities as other post-industrial cities in the United States.
Based on the observed trends, Hagerstown is likely to continue its transition towards greater diversity. If current trends persist, the city may move from a White Majority to a Moderate Diversity category within the next 5-10 years. The Hispanic and multiracial populations are likely to continue growing at a faster rate than other groups.
Economically, the city may face challenges if income growth continues to lag behind inflation. This could potentially lead to increased income inequality, particularly if the influx of new residents is primarily in lower-wage jobs.
Hagerstown is undergoing a significant demographic transition that is reshaping its community fabric. While still maintaining a white majority, the city is becoming increasingly diverse, which may bring both opportunities and challenges. Policymakers and community leaders should focus on inclusive economic development strategies to ensure that all residents can benefit from and contribute to the city's evolving landscape.
