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Demographic Analysis of Waterford, Pennsylvania: A Study of Racial Composition and Economic Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Waterford, Pennsylvania, exhibits a demographic profile classified as "Low Diversity" as of 2022. The white population comprises 89% of the total, exceeding the 75% threshold for this classification. The city's median income is $62,911, with a population of 1,244 in 2022.
Over the past decade, Waterford has maintained its "Low Diversity" status. However, subtle signs of a gradual shift towards increased diversity are evident. The white population decreased from 98% in 2013 to 89% in 2022. The Hispanic population showed significant growth, increasing from 1% in 2013 to 8% in 2022. The category of "two or more races" emerged, growing from 0% in 2013 to 4% in 2022. These changes suggest the early stages of a "Transitional Community."
Concurrent with these demographic shifts, Waterford experienced substantial economic growth. The median income rose from $42,179 in 2013 to $62,911 in 2022, representing a nearly 50% increase over the decade. This economic improvement coincides with the gradual diversification of the community. The population remained relatively stable over this period, fluctuating between approximately 1,300 and 1,400 residents, with a slight decline to 1,244 in 2022.
The trends observed in Waterford align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in smaller communities and suburban areas. The gradual nature of these changes suggests a more organic shift rather than rapid, large-scale demographic changes seen in some urban areas.
Based on the observed trends, Waterford is likely to continue its trajectory towards increased diversity at a measured pace. If current trends persist, over the next decade: 1) The community may transition from "Low Diversity" to "Moderate Diversity" as the white population potentially drops below 75% and other groups, particularly Hispanic and multiracial populations, continue to grow. 2) The median income is likely to continue its upward trend. 3) The community might evolve into a "Transitional Community" more definitively, especially if the growth rates of Hispanic and multiracial populations accelerate. 4) Population size may remain relatively stable or see modest growth.
In conclusion, while Waterford remains a predominantly white, low-diversity community, the seeds of change are evident. The coming years may see this small Pennsylvania borough gradually transforming into a more diverse and economically robust community, reflecting broader national trends of demographic evolution in small-town America.
