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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
West Lafayette, Indiana, is categorized as a "White Majority" city with moderate diversity. As of 2022, the white population constitutes 67% of the total, while the Asian community forms a significant minority at 19%. The city's median income is $50,438, and it has experienced demographic shifts over the past decade.
West Lafayette has maintained its status as a "White Majority" city throughout the analyzed period, but there is a trend towards increased diversity. The white population has decreased from 74% in 2013 to 67% in 2022, while the Asian population has grown from 16% to 19% in the same period. This trend suggests a gradual transition towards a "Moderate Diversity" classification, as multiple racial groups gain significant representation.
The Hispanic and Black populations have also shown modest growth, increasing from 5% to 6% and 2% to 5% respectively between 2013 and 2022. This further contributes to the city's growing diversity.
The median income in West Lafayette has shown an overall positive trend, rising from $45,641 in 2013 to $50,438 in 2022, an increase of about 10.5%. This growth in income has coincided with the diversification of the population. The population has also grown significantly, from 56,942 in 2013 to 60,998 in 2022, an increase of about 7.1%.
The trends observed in West Lafayette align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in urban areas, particularly those with major educational institutions. The growth in the Asian population is notable and may be linked to increased international student enrollment and retention of graduates in the local workforce.
Based on the observed trends, West Lafayette is likely to continue its trajectory towards greater diversity. If current trends persist, the city may transition from a "White Majority" to a "Moderate Diversity" classification within the next decade. The Asian population may continue to grow, potentially approaching or exceeding 20% of the total population.
Economically, the city is likely to see continued growth in median income, assuming the correlation between increasing diversity and economic growth continues. This could lead to changes in the local economy, with more diverse businesses and cultural offerings emerging to serve the changing population.
The city may also be moving towards becoming a "Transitional Community" if the growth rates of minority populations, particularly Asian and Hispanic groups, continue to outpace that of the white population. This transition could bring both opportunities and challenges, potentially requiring adjustments in local policies, education, and community services to meet the needs of a more diverse population.
West Lafayette is on a path of increasing diversity and economic growth. While it remains a "White Majority" city, it is steadily moving towards a more diverse future, with potential economic and cultural benefits accompanying this demographic shift.