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Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 12586: Transition from Low to Moderate Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The zip code 12586 in Walden, New York, is classified as a "White Majority" community with moderate diversity as of 2022. The white population comprises 62% of the total, with Hispanic (19%) and Black (10%) minorities. The median income in 2022 was $88,052, indicating a relatively affluent area.
This zip code has transitioned from a "Low Diversity" area to a "Moderate Diversity" community over the past decade. In 2013, the area was 78% white with minimal representation from other groups. By 2022, the white population decreased to 62%, while Hispanic and Black populations increased. The Hispanic population grew from 16% in 2013 to 19% in 2022. The Black population increased from 3% in 2013 to 10% in 2022. A "Two or More Races" category emerged, accounting for 7% of the population in 2022.
The median income in the area has fluctuated over the decade. It started at $81,567 in 2013, peaked at $94,459 in 2015, and settled at $88,052 in 2022. Despite fluctuations, the overall trend shows a moderate increase in median income over the decade.
The periods of highest median income (2014-2017) coincided with the early stages of demographic shift, suggesting that the initial diversification may have been driven by affluent minorities moving into the area. The slight decrease in median income in recent years, coupled with continued diversification, might indicate a broadening of socioeconomic diversity alongside racial diversity.
The demographic shifts observed in this zip code align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in suburban and small-town America. The growth in Hispanic and Black populations, as well as the increase in individuals identifying as two or more races, mirrors national demographic changes.
The median income in this zip code remains significantly above the national median (which was around $70,784 in 2021), suggesting that despite demographic changes, the area remains relatively affluent. This could indicate that the diversification is occurring across various income levels, potentially leading to a more economically integrated community.
The transition from a predominantly white community to one with increasing diversity, while maintaining above-average income levels, suggests that this zip code may be experiencing "suburban diversification," a trend seen in many parts of the United States where traditionally homogeneous suburban areas are becoming more diverse while retaining their economic advantages.
The zip code 12586 in Walden, New York, exemplifies a community in transition, moving from low to moderate diversity while maintaining economic stability. This trend reflects broader national patterns of suburban diversification and suggests a community that may continue to evolve demographically in the coming years.
