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Demographic Analysis of Meadville, Pennsylvania: Race and Diversity Trends from 2013 to 2022
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Meadville, Pennsylvania is classified as a Low Diversity community with a White Majority. In 2022, the white population comprised 88% of the total, exceeding the 75% threshold for Low Diversity classification. The city's median income in 2022 was $52,272, with a population of 14,082.
Over the past decade, Meadville has maintained its status as a Low Diversity, White Majority community. Minor demographic shifts have occurred: the White population decreased from 90% in 2013 to 88% in 2022, the Black population increased from 4% to 5%, the Hispanic population grew from 1% to 2%, and the population of two or more races doubled from 2% to 4%. These changes indicate a slow trend towards increased diversity.
The median income has grown overall, rising from $43,167 in 2013 to $52,272 in 2022, an increase of about 21%. This growth has not been consistent, with a significant increase between 2013 and 2014, and a slight decrease in 2022 from the peak of $54,618 in 2021. The population has gradually declined, decreasing from 14,551 in 2013 to 14,082 in 2022, a reduction of about 3.2%.
The slow increase in diversity and overall growth in median income align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in smaller cities and gradual economic recovery post-2008 recession. The population decline may indicate challenges faced by smaller cities in retaining residents.
Based on observed trends, Meadville is likely to continue its slow progression towards increased diversity. It may remain a White Majority community for the foreseeable future but could potentially transition into a Moderate Diversity category within the next couple of decades if current trends persist. This transition would be characterized by a continued decrease in the white population percentage, steady growth in the Hispanic, Black, and multi-racial populations, and possible increase in the Asian population.
Economically, if the trend continues, further increases in median income might occur, potentially reaching or surpassing $60,000 within the next 5-10 years. However, the city will need to address its population decline to ensure long-term economic stability and growth.
The community may be showing early signs of becoming a Transitional Community, particularly with the consistent growth in the two or more races category. This trend, if it continues and accelerates, could be a precursor to more significant demographic shifts in the future.
