Loading Content...
Demographic Analysis of Pocatello, Idaho: A Predominantly White City with Emerging Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Pocatello, Idaho, exhibits demographic stability with subtle shifts. As of 2022, the city is categorized as "Low Diversity," with the white population comprising 82% of residents. This characterization has remained consistent over the past decade, though gradual changes are occurring. The city's median income of $52,924 in 2022 reflects a modest economic profile, slightly below the national median.
While Pocatello has maintained its "Low Diversity" status throughout the observed period, there is a slow but steady trend towards increased diversity. The white population has decreased from 87% in 2013 to 82% in 2022, indicating a gradual shift away from extreme low diversity. The Hispanic population has shown the most significant growth, increasing from 7% in 2013 to 9% in 2022. The Asian and Two or More Races categories have both doubled their representation, from 1% to 2% and 2% to 4% respectively. These changes suggest that Pocatello is in the early stages of becoming a "Transitional Community," though the pace of change is slow compared to many urban areas nationwide.
The city's economic trajectory shows modest growth. Median income increased from $49,939 in 2013 to $52,924 in 2022, a growth of about 6% over nine years. This growth barely outpaces inflation, suggesting limited real economic progress. The population has grown from 57,941 in 2013 to 59,623 in 2022, a modest 2.9% increase. The slow population growth and limited income gains align with the gradual nature of the demographic shifts, suggesting a stable community with incremental changes rather than rapid transformation.
Pocatello's demographic trends likely mirror those of many small to mid-sized cities in the Mountain West. These include gradual diversification, particularly through growth in Hispanic populations, a slower pace of change compared to larger urban centers or coastal regions, and modest economic growth, potentially reflecting challenges in attracting high-paying industries to the area.
Based on the observed trends, Pocatello is likely to continue its slow transition towards greater diversity over the next decade. The city may approach the threshold of "Moderate Diversity" by 2030-2035 if current trends continue, with the white population potentially dropping below 75% and Hispanic population approaching 15%. The "Two or More Races" category may see continued growth, reflecting national trends in multiracial identification. Economic growth is likely to remain modest unless significant new industries or employers are attracted to the area.
Pocatello appears to be on a path towards slightly greater diversity and potentially more dynamic community interactions. This gradual change may present opportunities for cultural enrichment and economic diversification, albeit at a pace that allows for community adaptation rather than disruption.
