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Demographic Analysis of Pelham, Alabama: A Study of Racial Composition and Diversity Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Pelham, Alabama exhibits characteristics of a "White Majority" community with moderate diversity as of 2022. The white population constitutes 70% of the total, while other racial groups, particularly Black and Hispanic populations, have significant representation. The city's median income is $83,836 in 2022, suggesting a relatively affluent community, with a population of 27,645 spread across 39.33 square miles.
Over the past decade, Pelham has undergone a gradual transition from a "Low Diversity" community towards a more diverse demographic composition. In 2013, the white population comprised 78% of the total, categorizing the city as "Low Diversity." By 2022, this percentage decreased to 70%, indicating a shift towards "Moderate Diversity." The Black population increased from 7% in 2013 to 12% in 2022, while the Hispanic population grew from 10% to 13% during the same period. The Asian population tripled from 1% to 3%.
Concurrent with these demographic shifts, Pelham experienced significant economic growth. The median income rose from $76,040 in 2013 to $83,836 in 2022, an increase of about 10%. The population grew from 26,033 in 2013 to 27,645 in 2022, a 6.2% increase. This moderate population growth, combined with rising incomes and increasing diversity, indicates a community in transition.
The trends observed in Pelham align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in suburban areas. Many U.S. suburbs have experienced similar demographic shifts over the past decade, often accompanied by economic growth and changing community dynamics.
Based on the observed trends, Pelham appears to be on a trajectory towards becoming a "Transitional Community." If current trends continue, we can expect further diversification, with the white population potentially dropping below 70% in the coming years, continued growth in Black, Hispanic, and Asian populations, a possible shift towards "High Diversity" status if multiple minority groups continue to grow significantly, and sustained economic growth, potentially attracting more diverse, affluent residents.
Pelham is evolving from a predominantly white, low-diversity community into a more diverse, economically prosperous area. This transition presents both opportunities and challenges for community cohesion, cultural integration, and economic development. Local policymakers and community leaders should focus on inclusive growth strategies to harness the benefits of increasing diversity while addressing any potential socio-economic disparities that may arise during this transition.
