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Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 17821: A Low Diversity Area with White Majority
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The zip code 17821 in Riverside, Pennsylvania, is classified as a "Low Diversity" area with a "White Majority" as of 2022. The white population comprises 90% of the total, exceeding the 75% threshold for low diversity classification. The area has a population of 20,291 and a median income of $63,032.
Over the past decade, this zip code has maintained its "Low Diversity" and "White Majority" status. There have been minor demographic shifts, including a slight decrease in the white population from 94% in 2013 to 90% in 2022, a gradual increase in the Asian population from 2% to 4%, and small growth in Black and Hispanic populations from 1% to 2% and 3% respectively. These changes indicate a slow trend towards increased diversity, though not sufficient to alter the area's "Low Diversity" categorization.
The median income in the area has shown overall growth, increasing from $59,109 in 2013 to $63,032 in 2022, a 6.6% increase over nine years. This growth is relatively modest and may not have kept pace with inflation. A significant income spike occurred in 2021 to $72,136, followed by a return to previous levels in 2022. The population has grown slightly from 19,874 in 2013 to 20,291 in 2022, a 2.1% increase.
The zip code 17821 is changing at a slower rate compared to national trends of increasing diversity. The persistence of a strong white majority (90%) is notable when compared to national averages. The modest income growth may reflect broader trends of wage stagnation seen in many parts of the United States, particularly in more rural or less diverse areas.
The stability in population and racial composition could indicate limited economic opportunities attracting new residents or limited housing development. The large zip code size (137.06 square miles) with a relatively small population suggests a more rural or suburban setting, which often sees slower demographic changes compared to urban areas.
In conclusion, zip code 17821 shows signs of very gradual diversification and modest economic growth, but remains a predominantly white, low-diversity area with stable population and income levels. The slow pace of change suggests that significant shifts in the community's demographic or economic profile are unlikely in the near future without major external factors or policy changes.
