Loading Content...
Demographic Analysis of Kearney, Nebraska: A Low Diversity City with Gradual Racial Changes
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Kearney, Nebraska, a city of 33,374 residents as of 2022, is categorized as "Low Diversity" based on demographic analysis. The city's population is 84% white, indicating a strong racial majority. However, the demographic landscape has shown gradual shifts over the past decade, indicating increased diversity and economic changes.
The racial composition of Kearney has undergone subtle yet significant changes from 2013 to 2022. The white population decreased from 87% to 84%, while the Hispanic population increased from 7% to 10%. The Asian population doubled from 1% to 2%, and the population identifying as two or more races tripled from 1% to 3%. These shifts suggest a slow progression towards a more diverse community.
Economically, Kearney's median income has shown overall growth, increasing from $58,235 in 2013 to $63,903 in 2022, a 9.7% rise. This growth has not been linear, with peak income recorded in 2021 at $67,511 and periods of decline followed by recovery. The most recent year (2022) saw a decrease from the 2021 peak.
Kearney's demographic trends align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in smaller cities and towns. The growth in Hispanic and Asian populations, as well as those identifying as two or more races, mirrors national demographic shifts. However, Kearney's pace of diversification appears slower than many urban areas across the United States.
Based on observed trends, Kearney is likely to continue its gradual transition towards greater diversity over the next decade. The city may move from "Low Diversity" to "Moderate Diversity" within the next 10-15 years if current trends persist. The Hispanic population could potentially reach 15% by 2030, becoming a more significant minority group. The category of "two or more races" may continue to grow, reflecting increasing interracial relationships and families.
Economically, if the correlation between diversification and income growth continues, Kearney might see further increases in median income. However, the recent dip suggests potential volatility, and economic growth may depend on how well the city integrates its growing diverse population into the local economy.
In conclusion, while Kearney remains a predominantly white, low-diversity community, it is showing clear signs of gradual demographic change. This evolution, coupled with overall positive economic trends, suggests a city in slow but steady transition towards a more diverse and potentially more economically robust future.
