Loading Content...
Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 08731: From White Majority to Increasing Racial Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Zip code 08731 in Forked River, New Jersey, is classified as a "White Majority" area with a trend towards becoming a "Transitional Community" as of 2022. The population is 21,401 with a median income of $86,046. This suburban area shows gradual demographic shifts while maintaining a predominantly white population (82%).
Over the past decade, Forked River has transitioned from a "Low Diversity" community to a "White Majority" area with increasing diversity. From 2013 to 2016, the area was characterized by "Low Diversity," with the white population consistently above 93%. Between 2017 and 2019, a shift towards "White Majority" status occurred, with the white population dropping to 92%. From 2020 to 2022, the community solidified its "White Majority" status while showing signs of becoming a "Transitional Community." The Hispanic population grew from 6% in 2019 to 15% in 2022, while the white population decreased from 92% to 82%.
The demographic shifts correlate with changes in median income. From 2013 to 2019, as the community remained relatively homogeneous, median income steadily increased from $70,833 to $87,733. From 2020 to 2022, as diversity increased, median income fluctuated, peaking at $91,358 in 2021 before decreasing to $86,046 in 2022. This suggests that the demographic transition may be influencing economic patterns. Population growth has been steady throughout the period, increasing from 20,371 in 2013 to 21,401 in 2022.
The demographic shifts observed in Forked River align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in suburban areas. The growth in the Hispanic population reflects a nationwide pattern of Hispanic population growth and dispersion into traditionally white-majority suburbs.
The median income in Forked River ($86,046 in 2022) remains higher than the national median household income (approximately $70,784 in 2021), suggesting that despite demographic changes, the area maintains a relatively affluent status.
The transition towards greater diversity is noteworthy in the context of New Jersey, which is known for its diverse population. This trend suggests that even traditionally homogeneous suburban areas in the state are experiencing demographic changes, likely influenced by factors such as changing housing preferences, job opportunities, and broader societal shifts towards integration.
Forked River exemplifies a suburban community in transition, moving from low diversity towards increased racial and ethnic plurality. While maintaining its "White Majority" status, the area shows signs of evolving into a more diverse community, with potential implications for local economy, culture, and social dynamics in the coming years.
