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Demographic Analysis of Topeka, Kansas: White Majority with Increasing Racial Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Topeka, Kansas, as of 2022, is classified as a "White Majority" city with moderate diversity. The white population comprises 64% of the total, while Hispanic residents constitute the largest minority group at 16%. The city's median income in 2022 is $50,709, indicating a moderate economic status. Topeka has a population of 125,464 spread across 62.76 square miles.
Over the past decade, Topeka has gradually transitioned from a "Low Diversity" community to one approaching "Moderate Diversity." In 2013, the white population made up 70% of the total, bordering on the "Low Diversity" category. By 2022, this percentage decreased to 64%, while Hispanic and multiracial populations increased significantly. The Hispanic population grew from 13% in 2013 to 16% in 2022, and those identifying as two or more races increased from 5% to 6%. This trend indicates a slow but steady move towards a more diverse community, though it still maintains a clear "White Majority" status.
The median income in Topeka has shown overall growth, rising from $41,327 in 2013 to $50,709 in 2022, an increase of about 22.7%. This economic improvement correlates with the increasing diversity, suggesting that the influx of diverse populations may be contributing to economic growth or that economic opportunities are attracting a more diverse population. However, the population has slightly decreased from 127,702 in 2013 to 125,464 in 2022, indicating that while the city is becoming more diverse and economically stronger, it is not necessarily growing in size.
Topeka's trends align with national patterns of increasing diversity in mid-sized cities. The growth in Hispanic population and those identifying as multiracial mirrors broader demographic shifts across the United States.
Based on the observed trends, Topeka is likely to continue its trajectory towards greater diversity. If current trends persist, within the next decade, the city could transition from a "White Majority" to a "Majority-Minority" community. The Hispanic population, in particular, shows consistent growth and could become a more significant demographic force.
Economically, the steady increase in median income suggests continued growth, which may attract more diverse populations seeking economic opportunities. However, the slight population decline is a factor to monitor, as it could impact future economic and demographic trends.
Topeka appears to be on a path toward becoming a more diverse and economically robust city, albeit with a stable or slightly declining population. This evolution could present both opportunities and challenges as the community adapts to its changing demographic landscape.
