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Demographic Analysis of West Salem, Illinois: A Study of Racial Composition and Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
West Salem, Illinois, is categorized as a Low Diversity community with a White Majority. As of 2022, the white population comprises 96% of the total, with minimal representation from other racial groups. The village has a population of 1,352 and a median income of $55,434.
Over the past decade, West Salem has maintained its status as a Low Diversity community with a White Majority. The white population percentage has slightly decreased from 99% in 2013 to 96% in 2022. The percentage of residents identifying as two or more races has increased from 0% in 2013 to 3% in 2022. Black and Hispanic populations have remained consistently low, fluctuating between 0-1% throughout the decade.
The median income in West Salem has shown significant fluctuations over the past decade. From 2013 to 2019, there was a steady increase in median income from $41,243 to $48,191. A notable spike occurred in 2020-2021, with median income reaching $65,380 in 2021. However, 2022 saw a decline to $55,434, though still higher than pre-2020 levels.
Population trends show a general decline from 1,857 in 2013 to 1,352 in 2022. The demographic makeup of West Salem contrasts with national trends towards increasing diversity. Many rural Midwestern communities have experienced population decline and economic challenges, which aligns with West Salem's experience.
West Salem is likely to remain a Low Diversity community with a White Majority in the near future. The slow increase in residents identifying as two or more races suggests a potential, gradual shift towards slightly increased diversity. If this trend continues and accelerates, the community might transition into a Transitional Community category over the next decade or two.
Economically, the recent volatility in median income makes predictions challenging. If the village can stabilize and build on the overall income growth seen since 2013, it may be able to attract new residents and slowly reverse the population decline. This will likely depend on broader economic trends and the village's ability to create opportunities that appeal to both current residents and potential newcomers.
While West Salem remains a predominantly white, low-diversity community, subtle demographic shifts and economic fluctuations suggest the potential for gradual change in the coming years. Monitoring these trends will be crucial for local policymakers and community leaders in planning for the village's future.
