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Demographic Analysis of West University Neighborhood: White Majority with Increasing Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
West University, a neighborhood in Eugene, Oregon, is classified as a "White Majority" community with 74% of its population identifying as white in 2022. The neighborhood has shown signs of increasing diversity over the past decade. The median income in West University was $19,706 in 2022, indicating significant economic growth in recent years. The area is characterized by a high concentration of student housing due to its proximity to the University of Oregon.
At the beginning of the decade, West University was categorized as "White Majority" with 80% of the population identifying as white in 2013. Over the years, there has been a gradual shift towards increased diversity, though the neighborhood still maintains its "White Majority" status. The percentage of white residents decreased to 67% by 2020, briefly approaching a "Moderate Diversity" classification, before increasing again to 74% in 2022.
The Asian population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 6% and 12% over the decade. The Hispanic population has shown growth, increasing from 5% in 2013 to 9% in 2022. The most notable change has been in the "Two or More Races" category, which grew from 5% in 2013 to 10% in 2020, before settling at 8% in 2022.
The neighborhood has experienced significant economic growth over the past decade. The median income has increased from $10,085 in 2013 to $19,706 in 2022. This increase in median income correlates with the gradual diversification of the neighborhood.
The population has grown from 6,139 in 2013 to 7,865 in 2022, representing a 28% increase. This population growth, combined with the income increase, suggests a neighborhood experiencing economic development and potentially gentrification.
The demographic shifts in West University align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban areas, particularly those near universities. The gradual increase in Hispanic and multiracial populations mirrors national demographic shifts.
The increase in median income is significant, especially considering the high student population. This could indicate an influx of wealthier students or young professionals, potentially changing the character of what was traditionally a more affordable student neighborhood.
The population growth rate of 28% over a decade is higher than the national average, which typically hovers around 7-8% per decade. This rapid growth could be putting pressure on local housing and infrastructure.
West University is undergoing a gradual transition from a predominantly white, lower-income student neighborhood to a more diverse, higher-income area. While still categorized as "White Majority," it shows signs of moving towards "Moderate Diversity" in the coming years if current trends continue. The economic growth and demographic shifts suggest a neighborhood in transition, likely influenced by its proximity to the university and broader urban development trends.
