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Demographic Analysis of the Riviera Neighborhood: Persistent White Majority and Low Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Riviera neighborhood in Santa Barbara, California, exhibits a Low Diversity demographic profile with a White Majority of 88% as of 2022. The median income is $155,970, which is above the national average. The Riviera is characterized by Mediterranean-style homes and views of the Pacific Ocean, making it one of Santa Barbara's most desirable neighborhoods.
Over the past decade, the Riviera has maintained its status as a Low Diversity community with a strong White Majority. From 2013 to 2022, the White population has remained above 83%. The Asian population increased from 1% in 2013 to 2% in 2022, with a peak of 9% in 2019. The Hispanic population has fluctuated between 3% and 7%, showing a slight upward trend. There has been a consistent absence of Black and Native American residents throughout the period.
The Riviera's demographic stability is reflected in its economic trends. The median income has remained high, ranging from $155,557 to $175,243 between 2013 and 2022. There is a minor downward trend in median income from $175,116 in 2019 to $155,970 in 2022. The population has grown from 1,112 in 2013 to 1,548 in 2022, a 39% increase.
The Riviera's demographic and economic profile contrasts with broader trends in California and the United States. While California has no racial majority statewide, the Riviera maintains an overwhelmingly White population. The Riviera's median income of $155,970 is nearly twice the state average of $84,907 in 2022. Unlike many urban areas experiencing increased diversity, the Riviera has largely maintained its demographic composition.
The high and stable income levels, coupled with population growth and low diversity, may indicate ongoing gentrification processes that could be limiting opportunities for increased diversity. The Riviera neighborhood presents a picture of demographic and economic stability that differs from broader trends of increasing diversity in urban areas. Its persistent Low Diversity and high-income status suggest a community that has remained largely insulated from demographic changes affecting many other parts of California and the United States.
