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Demographic Analysis of Lee, Illinois: Racial Composition and Economic Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Lee, Illinois, as of 2022, is classified as a "Low Diversity" community. The population is 88% white, indicating a strong racial majority. Recent data suggests a subtle shift towards increased diversity, which may affect the community's future demographic and economic landscape.
Over the past decade, Lee has maintained its "Low Diversity" status. The white population has remained above 75% throughout this period. However, there is a noticeable trend of decreasing white population percentage, from 96% in 2018 to 88% in 2022. This gradual decline suggests the early stages of a potential transition.
There has been a modest increase in other racial groups. The Hispanic population has grown from 2% in 2018 to 6% in 2022, while those identifying as two or more races increased from 1% to 5% in the same period. This trend indicates that Lee might be in the early stages of becoming a "Transitional Community."
The demographic shifts correlate with changes in median income. From 2013 to 2022, the median income in Lee increased from $65,570 to $88,844, a 35.5% rise. This economic growth coincides with the gradual diversification of the community. The population has declined from 572 in 2013 to 509 in 2022. This decline, coupled with rising incomes, might indicate a shift in the village's economic base or changes in local industries.
The trends in Lee mirror broader national patterns of increasing diversity in rural and small-town America. The growth in Hispanic population and multiracial identifications aligns with national demographic shifts. The rising median income reflects a general trend of economic recovery and growth following the 2008 recession, though Lee's growth appears to outpace national averages.
Lee appears to be on a trajectory towards greater diversity, albeit at a slow pace. If current trends continue, the community might transition from "Low Diversity" to "Moderate Diversity" within the next decade. The Hispanic and multiracial populations are likely to continue growing, potentially reaching significant representation in the coming years.
Economically, the trend of rising median incomes is likely to persist, potentially attracting more diverse, high-skilled workers to the area. However, this could also lead to gentrification concerns if housing affordability becomes an issue for long-term residents.
Lee remains a predominantly white, low-diversity community, but changes in its demographic makeup and economic indicators suggest it is in the early stages of a transition. This evolution towards greater diversity could bring new opportunities and perspectives to the village while potentially presenting challenges in maintaining community cohesion and affordability.
