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Demographic Analysis of Markham, Illinois: Black Majority and Gradual Diversification
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Markham, Illinois, presents a demographic profile categorized as a "Black Majority" community. As of 2022, the African American population constitutes 71% of the city's residents. The city has experienced moderate economic growth over the past decade, with a median income of $45,088 in 2022, up from $40,924 in 2013.
Over the past decade, Markham has undergone a gradual transition from a "Low Diversity" community to one moving towards "Moderate Diversity." In 2013, the Black population represented 80% of the total. By 2022, this percentage decreased to 71%, while the Hispanic population increased from 7% to 14%, and the White population slightly increased from 12% to 12%. This shift suggests a trend towards greater diversity, though the city remains in the "Black Majority" category.
The city's median income has shown modest growth, increasing from $40,924 in 2013 to $45,088 in 2022, representing a 10.2% increase over nine years. This growth has not kept pace with inflation, suggesting potential economic challenges for residents. The population has decreased from 12,990 in 2013 to 11,901 in 2022, a decline of about 8.4%. This population decrease, coupled with the modest income growth, may indicate a complex economic landscape where some residents, possibly those with higher incomes, are leaving the city.
The demographic shifts in Markham align with broader trends seen in many urban areas across the United States. The increase in Hispanic population and slight growth in White population percentages, coupled with a decrease in the Black majority, reflect a national trend towards increased diversity in urban areas. However, the city's overall population decline contrasts with the growth seen in many urban centers, suggesting unique local factors affecting Markham's demographic evolution.
Based on the observed trends, Markham is likely to continue its trajectory towards increased diversity over the coming years. If current trends persist, the city may transition from a "Black Majority" to a "Black Plurality" category within the next decade. The Hispanic population is likely to continue growing, potentially reaching or exceeding 20% of the total population.
Economically, the modest income growth coupled with population decline suggests a potential for economic stagnation. However, if the city can attract new residents and businesses, possibly leveraging its increasing diversity as an asset, it could reverse the population decline and potentially see more robust economic growth.
Markham is undergoing a slow but steady demographic transformation, moving from a predominantly Black community towards a more diverse urban area. This transition presents both challenges and opportunities for economic development and community cohesion. The city's ability to navigate these changes will be crucial in determining its future socio-economic landscape.
