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Demographic and Economic Analysis of Meridian, Pennsylvania: A Low Diversity White Majority Neighborhood
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Meridian, Pennsylvania, is categorized as a "Low Diversity" community with a "White Majority" as of 2022, with 96% of the population identified as white. The neighborhood has experienced economic growth over the past decade, with median income rising from $60,001 in 2013 to $74,258 in 2022. Meridian is located near the Meridian Station of the Pittsburgh Light Rail system, connecting it to the greater Pittsburgh metropolitan area.
Throughout the analyzed period (2013-2022), Meridian has maintained its status as a "Low Diversity" community with a "White Majority." The white population percentage has fluctuated slightly, peaking at 98% in 2017 and settling at 96% in 2022. There has been a gradual increase in diversity, with small increases in Asian, Black, Hispanic, and multi-racial populations. These small shifts could indicate the beginning of a long-term trend towards slightly increased diversity.
The economic trajectory of Meridian shows steady growth, with median income increasing by about 24% from 2013 to 2022. As the community maintained its "Low Diversity" status, median income rose consistently year over year until 2021. The slight increase in diversity (particularly from 2017 onwards) coincides with accelerated income growth, suggesting that the influx of new residents may have contributed to economic vitality. There was a notable decrease in median income from 2021 to 2022 (from $78,667 to $74,258).
Population figures have fluctuated over the years, with a general downward trend from 2010 to 2020, followed by an increase in 2021 and 2022. This recent population growth coincides with the slight increase in diversity and could be indicative of the area becoming more attractive to a wider range of residents.
Meridian's gradual diversification aligns with broader national trends of increasing diversity in suburban areas. The pace of change in Meridian appears to be slower than national averages. The steady increase in median income is consistent with national trends of economic recovery and growth following the 2008 recession. The recent decrease in 2022 may reflect broader economic challenges faced nationwide.
The community's connection to Pittsburgh via light rail likely plays a role in its economic stability and modest growth, as it allows residents to access job opportunities in the larger metropolitan area while maintaining a suburban lifestyle.
In conclusion, while Meridian remains a "Low Diversity" community with a strong "White Majority," subtle shifts in demographics and consistent economic growth suggest the potential for gradual change. The community's economic trajectory, coupled with its transportation advantages, may continue to attract a slowly diversifying population in the coming years, potentially leading to a transition towards moderate diversity in the long term.
