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Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 12786: A Study of Racial Composition and Economic Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Zip code 12786 in White Lake, New York, is categorized as a "Low Diversity" area with a "White Majority" as of 2022. The community has a population of 518 and a median income of $87,012, which has increased significantly from previous years. This rural area has a population density of approximately 39.6 people per square mile.
Throughout the period from 2013 to 2022, White Lake has maintained its status as a "Low Diversity" area with a "White Majority." The white population has consistently remained above 80% for most years, with only minor fluctuations. The Hispanic population increased from 7% in 2013 to a peak of 17% in 2016, but this trend reversed in subsequent years, declining to 4% by 2022. Other racial groups have minimal representation in the area.
The economic landscape of White Lake has undergone significant changes over the decade. The median income has increased substantially, rising from $56,232 in 2013 to $87,012 in 2022, representing a 54.7% increase over nine years. The population has fluctuated, dropping from 465 in 2010 to a low of 340 in 2014, before rising again to 518 in 2022. This V-shaped trend in population coincides with changes in racial composition and income levels.
The period of highest Hispanic representation (2014-2016) coincided with the lowest median incomes. As the Hispanic population decreased and the white majority strengthened, median incomes rose significantly.
The substantial increase in median income, coupled with the strengthening white majority, could indicate a form of rural gentrification. This trend is observed in some rural areas across the U.S., where higher-income individuals move to scenic or quieter locations. The 54.7% increase in median income over nine years is notably higher than the national average. Unlike many areas in the U.S. that are becoming more diverse, White Lake has maintained and even slightly increased its white majority, running counter to national trends of increasing diversity.
White Lake presents a case of economic growth and demographic stability, with a brief period of potential transition that ultimately reverted to its original low-diversity status. The significant income growth suggests changing economic dynamics that could have far-reaching effects on local life, potentially attracting new residents while possibly pricing out others. This trend warrants further investigation into housing costs, local economic drivers, and community dynamics to fully understand its implications for the future of this small New York community.
