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Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 08817: Transition to High Diversity and Majority-Minority Status
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Zip code 08817 in Metuchen, New Jersey, is classified as a "High Diversity" area as of 2022. No single racial group exceeds 40% of the population, with at least three groups having significant representation over 10% each. The Asian population comprises 38%, followed by White at 32%, Hispanic at 14%, and Black at 11%. The median income is $95,689.
Over the past decade, Metuchen has transitioned from "Moderate Diversity" to "High Diversity". In 2013, White and Asian populations each comprised 39% of the total. By 2022, the White population declined to 32%, while the Asian population remained relatively stable between 36-40%. Black and Hispanic populations increased from 7-12% in 2013 to 11-14% in 2022. Small but notable "Other" and "Two or More Races" categories emerged, indicating increasing racial complexity.
The demographic shifts occurred alongside economic changes. Median income rose from $93,469 in 2013 to $95,689 in 2022, with a peak of $104,691 in 2021. The population grew from 44,643 in 2013 to 48,274 in 2022. These trends suggest that increasing diversity has not negatively impacted the area's prosperity.
The demographic evolution of Metuchen aligns with broader national trends of increasing diversity, particularly in suburban areas. The growth in Asian, Hispanic, and Black populations reflects similar patterns seen in many parts of the United States, especially in regions near major metropolitan areas.
The area's high median income, above the national median of approximately $70,784 in 2021, suggests that this community has maintained its economic status while becoming more diverse. This counters narratives that associate increasing diversity with economic decline and presents a model of prosperous multiculturalism.
The transition from "Moderate Diversity" to "High Diversity" over a decade is relatively rapid and may be indicative of broader changes in the region. This could be influenced by factors such as changing immigration patterns, economic opportunities attracting a diverse workforce, and shifts in housing preferences or affordability in nearby urban centers.
Metuchen represents a dynamic and evolving community that has embraced diversity while maintaining economic strength. This trend towards increased diversity coupled with economic stability could serve as a model for other communities navigating demographic changes in the 21st century.
