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Demographic Analysis of Peaks Island: A Low Diversity Neighborhood with Predominant White Population
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Peaks Island, a neighborhood of Portland, Maine, exhibits a Low Diversity demographic profile with a strong White Majority. As of 2022, 93% of the population identifies as white, with a median income of $90,216. The island community has maintained a relatively stable racial composition over the past decade, though subtle shifts are apparent in recent years.
Throughout the analyzed period (2013-2022), Peaks Island has consistently fallen under the Low Diversity category, with the white population never dropping below 92%. The Hispanic population has fluctuated, peaking at 7% in 2013 and settling at 3% in 2022. The proportion of residents identifying as two or more races has increased from 0% in 2013 to 4% in 2022. These changes suggest a slow trend towards a more diverse community.
The median income in Peaks Island has seen significant growth, more than doubling from $44,885 in 2013 to $90,216 in 2022. This substantial increase in median income correlates with a slight decrease in the white population percentage and an increase in residents identifying as two or more races. These trends suggest that the island may be attracting more affluent residents from diverse backgrounds, albeit at a slow pace.
Population figures have fluctuated over the decade, peaking at 827 in 2010 and decreasing to 653 in 2022. This decline in population, coupled with rising incomes, might indicate a shift towards fewer but more affluent households on the island.
Peaks Island's gradual diversification aligns with broader national trends of increasing racial diversity in suburban and rural areas. However, the pace of change is slower compared to many mainland communities. The significant increase in median income outpaces national averages, potentially reflecting broader gentrification trends seen in desirable coastal and island communities across the United States.
The island's unique character as a tourist destination and part of Portland likely influences its demographic and economic trends. The seasonal nature of its economy and limited housing stock may contribute to the slow pace of demographic change and the sharp increase in median income.
While Peaks Island remains a Low Diversity community with a strong White Majority, subtle shifts in its racial composition and significant economic growth suggest the beginning of a transition. If current trends continue, the island may evolve into a more diverse and economically stratified community in the coming years, potentially changing its character and presenting both opportunities and challenges for long-term residents and newcomers alike.
