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Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 17856: Persistent White Majority and Low Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The zip code 17856 in New Columbia, Pennsylvania, is characterized as a "Low Diversity" area with a "White Majority" as of 2022. The racial composition shows 98% of the population identifying as white, with minimal representation from other racial groups. The median income for 2022 was $61,870, and the population was 4,080.
Over the past decade, this zip code has consistently maintained its status as a "Low Diversity" area with a "White Majority." From 2013 to 2015, the area was entirely homogeneous, with 100% of the population identifying as white. Between 2016 and 2019, there was a slight increase in diversity, with the Hispanic population growing from 3% to 12%, and the introduction of a small (1-2%) two or more races category. By 2020-2022, the area reverted to its previous "Low Diversity" status, with the white population consistently above 88%, peaking at 98% in 2022.
The median income in the area has shown notable fluctuations over the past decade. From 2013 to 2017, there was a steady increase in median income from $54,601 to $59,393. A significant drop occurred in 2018, with median income falling to $53,984. Since 2020, there has been a substantial increase, with median income reaching a peak of $66,943 in 2021 before slightly decreasing to $61,870 in 2022.
Population trends have remained relatively stable, with minor fluctuations between 4,000 and 4,250 residents throughout the decade.
This zip code appears to be resisting the national trend of increasing diversity, maintaining its predominantly white composition. The economic growth seen in recent years, particularly the sharp increase in median income from 2020 to 2021, may reflect broader national economic trends following the initial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The stability in population numbers suggests that this area is neither experiencing significant growth nor decline, which is notable given the economic fluctuations. This could indicate a relatively stable community with strong local ties, potentially resistant to demographic changes seen in more urban or rapidly growing areas.
While this zip code has experienced some economic volatility over the past decade, its demographic composition has remained remarkably stable, maintaining its status as a low-diversity, white-majority area. The brief period of increased diversity in the mid-2010s did not lead to lasting changes, and the community appears to have reverted to its previous demographic makeup. These trends suggest a community that, while not immune to economic shifts, has maintained a consistent cultural and racial identity over time.
