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Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 20851: Transition to High Racial Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The 20851 zip code in Rockville, Maryland, has been classified as a "High Diversity" area as of 2022. No single racial group exceeds 40% of the population, and at least three groups have significant representation (over 10% each). The Hispanic community constitutes the largest group at 38%, followed by White at 33%, Asian at 17%, and Black at 9%. This demographic composition is associated with a median income of $106,801.
Over the past decade, this zip code has transitioned from a "Moderate Diversity" area to a "High Diversity" community. In 2013, the area was classified as having "Moderate Diversity" with White residents forming a plurality at 46%, followed by Hispanic residents at 29%. By 2017, the community had shifted to a "Majority-Minority" status, with combined minority populations exceeding 50% of the total.
The most significant change has been the increase in the Hispanic population, rising from 29% in 2013 to 38% in 2022. The White population has declined from 46% to 33% over the same period. The Asian population has remained between 12-17%, while the Black population has increased slightly from 7% to 9%. This evolution reflects a "Transitional Community" pattern, particularly evident in the growing Hispanic population and the declining White majority.
The demographic shifts have occurred alongside an upward trend in median income. In 2013, the median income was $97,408, which increased to $106,801 in 2022, representing a growth of about 9.6% over nine years. This suggests that the increasing diversity has not negatively impacted the area's economic prosperity.
The population has remained relatively stable, with minor fluctuations, growing from 11,996 in 2013 to 12,194 in 2022. This stability, combined with rising incomes, suggests that the area has maintained its attractiveness to residents across various racial and ethnic backgrounds.
The demographic shifts observed in this zip code align with broader national trends of increasing diversity, particularly in suburban areas near major cities. The growth of the Hispanic population is consistent with national demographic changes. The area's high median income ($106,801 in 2022) is significantly above the national median household income, indicating that this zip code represents a relatively affluent area.
The transition from a White plurality to a more evenly distributed racial makeup, without a single dominant group, is indicative of evolving suburban demographics across the country. This shift often brings cultural enrichment and economic dynamism to communities, as evidenced by the rising incomes in this zip code.
The 20851 zip code in Rockville, Maryland, exemplifies a transition to a "High Diversity" community, maintaining economic prosperity while becoming increasingly multicultural. This evolution reflects broader national trends and suggests a community that has embraced diversity as a strength.
