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Demographic Analysis of Lehi Neighborhood, Mesa, Arizona: Racial Composition and Economic Trends (2013-2022)
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Lehi neighborhood in Mesa, Arizona, is classified as a "Moderate Diversity" community as of 2022. No single racial group comprises more than 40% of the population. The demographic composition includes White (36%), Native American (31%), and Hispanic (26%) residents. The median income in Lehi was $59,819 in 2022. Lehi is one of the oldest continuously inhabited areas in the Phoenix metropolitan area, with origins tracing back to ancient Hohokam settlements.
Over the past decade, Lehi has experienced significant changes in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood was categorized as having a "White Plurality," with White residents constituting 40% of the population and Native Americans 35%. By 2022, the community transitioned to a "Moderate Diversity" classification, showing a more balanced distribution among White, Native American, and Hispanic populations.
The Hispanic population in Lehi increased from 22% in 2013 to 26% in 2022. The Native American population fluctuated, reaching 41% in 2020 before decreasing to 31% in 2022. The White population gradually declined from 40% to 36% during this period. These demographic shifts suggest a "Transitional Community" status, with increasing diversity driven by growth in the Hispanic population and changes in the Native American community.
Economic trends in Lehi have coincided with demographic shifts. The median income fluctuated significantly, rising from $42,902 in 2013 to $75,672 in 2019, then declining to $59,819 in 2022. The period of highest income (2018-2019) corresponded with a relatively stable racial composition, with White and Native American populations each comprising around 30-32% of the community. The subsequent decline in median income from 2020 onwards aligns with an increase in Hispanic representation and fluctuations in the Native American population.
Lehi's demographic evolution reflects broader trends observed in many urban areas across the United States, where increasing diversity is reshaping community dynamics. The growth in the Hispanic population aligns with national trends. The significant Native American presence in Lehi is unique compared to many other urban neighborhoods and likely reflects the area's historical significance and proximity to Native American reservations.
The economic volatility experienced in Lehi, particularly the sharp rise and subsequent decline in median income, may indicate broader economic challenges faced by the Phoenix metropolitan area, including housing market fluctuations and shifts in key industries.
Lehi's transition to a more diverse community over the past decade, coupled with its economic fluctuations, presents both opportunities and challenges. The neighborhood's unique blend of cultures, particularly its significant Native American population, distinguishes it from many urban areas and may offer potential for cultural tourism and community-led economic initiatives. However, the recent decline in median income suggests a need for targeted economic development strategies to ensure the well-being of all community members in this evolving demographic landscape.
