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Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 22715: Persistent White Majority in Brightwood, Virginia
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Zip code 22715 in Brightwood, Virginia, is classified as a "Low Diversity" community with a "White Majority" as of 2022. The area has a population of 751 and a median income of $69,522. This rural zip code spans 12.74 square miles, with an estimated 288 housing units based on the national average household size.
Over the past decade, Brightwood has maintained its status as a "Low Diversity" area with a strong "White Majority." The white population has consistently remained above 75%, ranging from 79% to 88%. Minor shifts in racial composition have occurred, with the Black population decreasing from 7% in 2013 to 1% in 2022, and the Hispanic population increasing from 1% in 2013 to 7% in 2022. The Asian population has remained consistently low, not exceeding 3% of the total population. The "Two or More Races" category has fluctuated between 3% and 8%.
The median income in Brightwood has shown considerable volatility over the past decade. From 2013 to 2016, there was a downward trend, dropping from $80,682 to $63,528. The income then rebounded to $78,727 in 2017, before declining again to $68,035 in 2019. An unusual spike occurred in 2021, with the median income reaching $107,468, before returning to $69,522 in 2022. These economic fluctuations do not appear to strongly correlate with the minor demographic shifts observed.
Population trends indicate a general decline from 882 in 2013 to 751 in 2022, with some fluctuations in between. This overall decrease could suggest challenges in retaining residents or attracting new ones, possibly due to limited economic opportunities or other local factors.
The demographic stability of Brightwood contrasts with national trends towards increasing diversity. While the U.S. as a whole has been moving towards greater racial and ethnic diversity, this zip code has maintained its predominantly white composition. The economic volatility, particularly the sharp income increase in 2021 followed by a significant decrease in 2022, may reflect broader economic disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath.
The consistent "Low Diversity" classification of Brightwood over the past decade suggests a stable community structure that has been resistant to significant demographic change. This stability could be due to various factors, such as limited housing development, the rural nature of the area, or established community dynamics that may not attract diverse newcomers.
In conclusion, Brightwood has experienced minor demographic shifts and significant economic fluctuations over the past decade, yet remains a predominantly white, low-diversity area. The community's resistance to major demographic changes, despite economic volatility, suggests deeply rooted local factors that maintain its current composition.
