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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Zip code 03777 in Fairlee, Vermont, is classified as a "Low Diversity" community with a "White Majority" as of 2022. The population is 94% white, with a median income of $76,622. This rural area spans 48.46 square miles and has a population of 1,329 with 509 housing units.
Over the past decade, this community has experienced demographic shifts. In 2013, 98% of the population identified as white. From 2017 to 2021, the community showed signs of transitioning, with increased representation from Asian, Black, and Hispanic populations. The most significant change occurred between 2015 and 2020, with the white population decreasing from 97% to 79% and the Asian population growing from 1% to 14%. However, 2022 data shows a reversal, with the white population returning to 94%.
The median income in the area has shown moderate growth over the past decade, increasing from $74,130 in 2013 to $76,622 in 2022, with fluctuations in between. The peak median income of $84,032 in 2018 coincided with the period of greatest racial diversity. The population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 1,329 and 1,506 residents, peaking in 2017 at 1,506.
The brief period of increased diversity in this Vermont community is notable, as Vermont is historically one of the least diverse states in the U.S. The temporary influx of Asian residents is unusual for rural Vermont and may have been related to specific economic or educational opportunities in the area.
The reversal of this diversity trend in 2022 could be attributed to various factors, including population shifts during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Many urban dwellers sought out rural areas during this time, which could explain the sudden increase in white residents and decrease in minority populations.
The area's median income remains above the national average, which was approximately $70,784 in 2021. This suggests that despite its rural nature and lack of diversity, the community maintains a relatively strong economic position.
In conclusion, while Fairlee briefly showed signs of becoming a more diverse community, recent data indicates a return to its historically homogeneous demographic composition. This fluctuation in diversity, coupled with stable economic indicators, presents a case study of demographic dynamics in rural New England communities.