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Demographic Analysis of Memorial Square: A Predominantly Hispanic Neighborhood in Springfield, Massachusetts
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Memorial Square, a neighborhood in Springfield, Massachusetts, is classified as a "Low Diversity" community with a "Racial Majority". As of 2022, the Hispanic population comprises 89% of the residents. The neighborhood has a low median income of $25,291 in 2022, which is below the national average. Memorial Square is known for its Puerto Rican cultural influence, evident in local businesses and community events.
Over the past decade, Memorial Square has maintained its status as a "Low Diversity" neighborhood with a "Racial Majority". The Hispanic population has increased from 83% in 2013 to 89% in 2022. Other racial groups have experienced slight declines. The Black population decreased from 9% to 5%, and the White population from 7% to 5% during the same period. A small Asian population (1%) has emerged in recent years.
The economic landscape of Memorial Square has shown some improvement. Median income increased from $20,330 in 2013 to $25,291 in 2022, representing a 24% growth over the decade. The population has remained relatively stable, with minor fluctuations. It decreased from 5,232 in 2013 to 4,946 in 2022, a 5.5% decline.
Memorial Square's demographic trends differ from national patterns. The Hispanic concentration in Memorial Square (89%) exceeds the national average (about 18.9% as of 2021). Unlike many urban areas experiencing increasing diversity, Memorial Square has become more homogeneous. The median income in Memorial Square ($25,291 in 2022) is lower than the national median household income (about $70,784 in 2021).
These trends indicate that Memorial Square is experiencing demographic isolation, potentially limiting economic opportunities and cultural exchange that often drive urban economic growth. The increasing concentration of a single ethnic group, combined with persistently low incomes, may suggest challenges in accessing broader economic opportunities or integrating with the wider economic fabric of the region.
The neighborhood's evolution over the past decade demonstrates a community that has become more ethnically homogeneous while making modest economic gains. This trend raises questions about social mobility, economic integration, and the long-term socio-economic trajectory of the area. It also highlights the need for targeted economic development strategies that can leverage the community's cultural strengths while promoting broader economic inclusion and opportunity.
