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Demographic Analysis of Rockford, Illinois: Racial Composition and Diversity Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Rockford, Illinois exhibits a demographic profile categorized as "Moderate Diversity" as of 2022. The city's population of 145,835 consists of a White majority (51%), with significant Hispanic (20%) and Black (19%) communities. The median income in 2022 was $53,994, indicating an increase from previous years.
Over the past decade, Rockford has transitioned from a "White Majority" community to one of "Moderate Diversity." In 2014, Whites constituted 57% of the population, decreasing to 51% by 2022. The Hispanic population has grown from 16% in 2014 to 20% in 2022, while the Black population has remained between 19-21%. Residents identifying as two or more races increased from 2% in 2014 to 6% in 2022.
The median income in Rockford has shown volatility but with an overall upward trend. From $40,215 in 2013, it dropped to $37,172 in 2014, then increased to $53,994 in 2022. The population has declined slightly from 152,618 in 2013 to 145,835 in 2022. These trends align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in mid-sized cities and growth of Hispanic populations across the United States.
Based on observed trends, Rockford is likely to continue its transition towards greater diversity. Within the next 5-10 years, the city could potentially shift from "Moderate Diversity" to "High Diversity" or "Majority-Minority" status. The Hispanic population may become the largest single group, potentially creating a "Hispanic Plurality" scenario.
Economically, if the positive correlation between diversity and median income continues, Rockford might see further increases in median income. This will depend on the city's ability to attract and retain businesses that can leverage its increasingly diverse workforce.
The growing multiracial population suggests a future where racial categories become more fluid. This could lead to a new category such as "Multicultural Convergence," where traditional racial boundaries blur, and the community is defined more by its cultural fusion than distinct racial groups.
