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Demographic Analysis of Pacoima: A Predominantly Hispanic Neighborhood in Los Angeles
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Pacoima, a neighborhood in Los Angeles, California, is classified as a "Low Diversity" community with a Hispanic Majority. As of 2022, 91% of the population identifies as Hispanic. The median income in 2022 was $60,656, which is lower than the overall Los Angeles median. Pacoima is known for its Chicano cultural heritage and has been home to notable figures such as Ritchie Valens.
Over the past decade, Pacoima has maintained its status as a "Low Diversity" community with a Hispanic Majority. The Hispanic population has remained stable, fluctuating between 90-91% from 2013 to 2022. This stability indicates a well-established, culturally cohesive community that has not experienced significant demographic changes often observed in other urban neighborhoods.
The Black population in Pacoima decreased slightly from 4% in 2013 to 3% in 2022, while the Asian and White populations remained constant at 2% and 3% respectively. A small category of two-or-more races (1%) emerged in 2022, suggesting a gradual increase in diversity, but not sufficient to change the neighborhood's "Low Diversity" classification.
Pacoima has experienced notable economic fluctuations despite demographic stability. The median income increased from $52,760 in 2013 to $68,078 in 2021, a 29% increase. However, in 2022, there was a sharp decline to $60,656, potentially reflecting broader post-pandemic economic challenges.
The population of Pacoima has also fluctuated, reaching a peak of 82,486 in 2017 before declining to 77,976 in 2022. This population decrease, combined with income volatility, suggests that the community is experiencing economic pressures that may be causing some residents to relocate, despite the stable racial composition.
Pacoima's demographic stability contrasts with broader trends in Los Angeles, where many neighborhoods are experiencing increasing diversity. The persistent Hispanic Majority in Pacoima reflects its role as a cultural enclave. The economic trends in Pacoima are similar to some national patterns, particularly the income growth up to 2021 and the subsequent decline in 2022. However, the neighborhood's median income remains below both Los Angeles and national averages, highlighting the ongoing economic challenges faced by this predominantly working-class community.
Pacoima has maintained its strong Hispanic cultural identity over the past decade while experiencing economic volatility that may pose challenges for its residents. The community's ability to maintain its demographic character amidst these economic fluctuations is notable and may indicate strong social and cultural bonds within the neighborhood.
