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Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 12498: Trends in Racial Composition and Economic Indicators
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Zip code 12498, corresponding to Woodstock, New York, is classified as having a "White Majority" as of 2022, with 84% of the population identifying as white. The area has a population of 3,956 and a median income of $59,097, indicating a decline in income in recent years. This rural area has a population density of approximately 193 people per square mile.
Over the past decade, Woodstock has maintained its "White Majority" status, although there has been a slight decrease in the white population from 89% in 2019 to 84% in 2022. This change suggests a trend towards increased diversity. The community has experienced small but consistent increases in its Asian and Hispanic populations, with the Hispanic population growing from 2% in 2020 to 5% in 2022. The most significant change is in the "Two or More Races" category, which increased from 3% in 2019 to 7% in 2022.
The gradual increase in diversity has coincided with a decline in median income. The median income peaked at $73,884 in 2013 and has since decreased to $59,097 in 2022, a reduction of about 20%. This decline occurred despite a population increase from 3,433 in 2013 to 3,956 in 2022. The inverse relationship between increasing diversity and decreasing median income is notable.
The trends observed in Woodstock partially align with national trends towards increasing diversity, particularly in suburban and rural areas. However, the decline in median income contrasts with the national trend of slowly increasing median household incomes over the past decade. The increase in the "Two or More Races" category is significant, mirroring a national trend observed in the 2020 Census.
The economic decline in Woodstock, despite population growth, may indicate challenges in local industry or job markets. It could also suggest a shift in the type of residents attracted to the area, possibly including retirees or remote workers seeking a quieter lifestyle outside of major urban centers.
Woodstock remains a predominantly white community but shows signs of gradual diversification. The economic challenges faced by the community, as evidenced by declining median incomes, present opportunities and obstacles for future development and community cohesion. Monitoring these trends in the coming years will be crucial for local policymakers and community leaders to address evolving needs and maintain the area's economic vitality while embracing its changing demographic landscape.
