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Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 12144: White Majority with Increasing Racial Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Zip code 12144 in Rensselaer, New York, is classified as a "White Majority" area with moderate diversity as of 2022. The white population constitutes 79% of the total, with other racial groups having notable representations. The median income in 2022 is $81,731, indicating a relatively affluent community. The population of 21,549 is distributed across 18.48 square miles.
This zip code has transitioned from a "Low Diversity" area to one of "Moderate Diversity" over the past decade. In 2013, the white population made up 89% of the total, qualifying it as a "Low Diversity" community. By 2022, this percentage decreased to 79%, while other racial groups increased their representation.
The Asian population experienced the most significant growth, increasing from 2% in 2013 to 5% in 2022. The Black and Hispanic populations also grew, each rising from 2-3% to 5% over the same period. The percentage of individuals identifying as two or more races increased from 3% to 5%.
This shift indicates a trend towards a more diverse community, though it maintains a strong "White Majority" status. The area appears to be in a gradual transition, potentially moving towards a "Transitional Community" classification if current trends continue.
The demographic shifts correlate with changes in median income. The median income increased from $69,992 in 2013 to $81,731 in 2022, representing a growth of about 16.8% over nine years. This increase coincides with the growing diversity of the area, suggesting a possible link between the influx of diverse populations and economic opportunities or changing socioeconomic conditions.
A significant spike in median income occurred in 2021, reaching $91,658, followed by a decrease in 2022. This fluctuation could be attributed to factors such as the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent recovery efforts.
The population has remained relatively stable over the decade, with a slight increase from 20,711 in 2013 to 21,549 in 2022. This modest growth, combined with increasing diversity and rising incomes, suggests a gradually evolving community that is attracting a more diverse population while maintaining economic stability.
The trends observed in this zip code align with broader patterns seen in many suburban areas across the United States. Many formerly homogeneous suburban communities have experienced increased racial and ethnic diversification over the past few decades.
The income growth in this area also reflects national trends of economic recovery and growth following the 2008 recession, though the specific income levels suggest this zip code may be more affluent than the national average.
Zip code 12144 in Rensselaer, New York, exemplifies a community in transition. It has evolved from a "Low Diversity" area to one of "Moderate Diversity" over the past decade while maintaining a strong "White Majority." This demographic shift has been accompanied by significant income growth, suggesting a dynamic interplay between increasing diversity and economic prosperity. If current patterns persist, the community may further evolve, potentially moving towards a "High Diversity" classification in the coming years.
