Loading Content...
Demographic Analysis of Lents Neighborhood: White Majority and Racial Diversity Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
DATA SOURCE
United States Census Bureau: American Community Survey Data (ACS)
Lents, a neighborhood in Portland, Oregon, exhibits a "White Majority" demographic composition with 61% of its population identifying as white in 2022. The neighborhood has evolved from a "Moderate Diversity" community to its current status over the past decade. Lents is characterized by a mix of residential and commercial areas, including the Lents International Farmers Market, reflecting its multicultural character.
In 2013, Lents was categorized as a "Moderate Diversity" community, with white residents comprising 59% of the population, Asian residents 16%, and Hispanic residents 14%. The neighborhood has maintained its "White Majority" status, with fluctuations in diversity levels. The Asian population has remained relatively stable, ranging from 12-17% throughout the decade. The Hispanic population decreased from 18% in 2015-2016 to 12% in 2022, indicating a shift in the neighborhood's cultural makeup.
The percentage of residents identifying as two or more races has doubled from 4% in 2013 to 8% in 2022, suggesting an increase in multiracial families or individuals. This trend could be categorized as a "Transitional Community" aspect.
The median income in Lents has increased from $47,772 in 2013 to $69,899 in 2022, representing a 46% increase. This economic growth correlates with the slight increase in the white population percentage and could indicate gentrification processes. The population has grown slightly from 24,365 in 2013 to 25,511 in 2022. This modest population growth, coupled with significant income increases, suggests an influx of higher-income residents rather than a large-scale population shift.
The demographic changes in Lents reflect broader trends seen in many urban neighborhoods across the United States. The increase in median income and slight growth in the white population percentage, combined with a decrease in some minority populations, align with patterns of gentrification observed in many cities. The growth in the multiracial population is consistent with national trends, as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau in the 2020 census.
Lents has maintained its "White Majority" status while continuing to exhibit diversity, particularly with stable Asian representation and a growing multiracial population. This suggests that it remains a dynamic and evolving community. The economic improvements, as evidenced by rising median incomes, may bring both opportunities and challenges, potentially affecting housing affordability and the neighborhood's traditional character.
Lents presents a picture of a neighborhood in transition, balancing economic growth with demographic shifts, and maintaining a level of diversity that contributes to its unique character within Portland's urban landscape.
