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Demographic Analysis of Kirkwood, Missouri: A Predominantly White City with Emerging Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
DATA SOURCE
United States Census Bureau: American Community Survey Data (ACS)
Kirkwood, Missouri, a city with a population of 27,435 as of 2022, is classified as having low diversity with a white majority. The median income of $103,570 indicates an affluent suburban community. Over the past decade, Kirkwood has maintained its status as a white majority community, with the white population remaining above 85%. However, subtle signs of increasing diversity are evident.
From 2013 to 2022, the white population decreased from 89% to 85%. The category of "Two or More Races" showed the most significant growth, increasing from 1% to 6%. The Asian population doubled from 1% to 2%, while the Hispanic population increased from 1% to 3%. The Black population slightly decreased from 6% to 4%. These changes suggest a slow transition towards greater diversity, though the city remains in the low diversity category.
The median income in Kirkwood has grown from $89,577 in 2013 to $103,570 in 2022, an increase of 15.6%. This income growth correlates with the subtle shifts in demographics, particularly the increase in Asian and multiracial populations. The city's population has grown steadily, from 25,983 in 2013 to 27,435 in 2022, an increase of 5.6%. This growth, coupled with rising incomes, suggests that Kirkwood remains an attractive destination for affluent residents.
Kirkwood's demographic shifts align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in suburban areas. However, the pace of change in Kirkwood appears slower than in many similar communities across the U.S., which have often seen more rapid increases in minority populations.
Based on observed trends, Kirkwood is likely to continue its slow transition towards greater diversity over the coming years. While it may remain in the low diversity category for the near future, there is potential for it to eventually transition into a moderate diversity community if current trends accelerate. The most significant changes are likely to come from continued growth in the multiracial, Asian, and Hispanic populations. If these trends continue, Kirkwood might approach a transitional community status within the next decade, particularly if the white population drops below 80% and other groups continue to grow.
Economically, the steady increase in median income suggests that Kirkwood will likely maintain its status as an affluent suburb. This economic stability may continue to attract a diverse range of professionals, potentially accelerating the diversification process. In conclusion, while Kirkwood remains a predominantly white, affluent suburb, subtle demographic shifts and steady economic growth suggest a gradual movement towards greater diversity. This evolution, though slow, reflects broader national trends and may lead to more significant changes in the community's character and composition in the coming years.
