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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
As of 2022, zip code 18518 in Old Forge, Pennsylvania, is categorized as a "Low Diversity" community with a "White Majority." The area has a population of 8,478 and a median income of $68,174. This analysis examines the demographic composition evolution over the past decade and its correlation with economic trends.
Throughout the analyzed period (2013-2022), the community maintained a "Low Diversity" status with a strong "White Majority." The white population consistently comprised over 75% of the total, ranging from 96% in 2016 to 82% in 2021. The Hispanic population showed a gradual increase from 1% in 2013 to 9% in 2022, with a peak of 12% in 2021. This trend suggests the community may be slowly transitioning towards a more diverse composition.
The percentage of individuals identifying as two or more races grew from 0% in 2016 to 4% in 2022, indicating a trend towards greater racial complexity within the community. Asian, Black, and Native American populations remained consistently low, each representing 1% or less of the total population throughout the period.
The median income showed significant growth, increasing from $56,357 in 2013 to $68,174 in 2022, representing a 21% increase over the decade. The population experienced a decline from 8,265 in 2013 to 7,885 in 2020, followed by a notable increase to 8,478 in 2022. This recent population growth coincides with the period of increased racial diversity and rising incomes. Despite the initial population decline, the community showed economic resilience with steadily increasing median incomes, particularly accelerating in the last few years.
The community's demographic composition, with its strong White Majority, is less diverse than many urban areas in the United States but may be typical for smaller boroughs in Pennsylvania. The recent increase in Hispanic population aligns with broader national trends of growing Hispanic communities in various parts of the country. The rise in median income outpaces inflation, suggesting real economic growth in the community. The recent population growth, reversing earlier declines, could indicate improving economic opportunities or quality of life factors attracting new residents.
Old Forge remains a "Low Diversity" community with a strong "White Majority." There are signs of gradual diversification, particularly with growth in Hispanic and multiracial populations. These demographic shifts have occurred alongside significant economic improvements, as evidenced by rising incomes and recent population growth. If these trends continue, the community may be on a path towards becoming a "Transitional Community" in the coming years, potentially moving towards "Moderate Diversity" in the longer term.