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Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 35401: Racial Composition and Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The 35401 zip code in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, is classified as a "Majority-Minority" community with moderate diversity as of 2022. The area has a Black population of 49% and a White population of 41%, with Hispanic (4%) and multiracial (2%) communities. The median income is $27,806, indicating a lower-middle-income area. The population is 38,990, residing in 14,939 housing units across 40.38 square miles.
This zip code has undergone a transition over the past decade. In 2013, it was classified as having a "Black Majority" with 55% of the population. By 2022, it shifted to a "Majority-Minority" status, with the Black population decreasing to 49% while other minority groups increased their representation. This change suggests a trend towards increased diversity.
The White population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 38% and 42% over the decade. The Hispanic population grew from 1% in 2013 to 4% in 2022, and individuals identifying as two or more races increased from 1% to 2%. This trend indicates that the area is becoming a "Transitional Community," slowly moving towards greater diversity.
The median income in the zip code has shown overall growth, rising from $21,251 in 2013 to $27,806 in 2022, an increase of about 31% over nine years. This growth places the area in a lower-middle-income bracket. The income growth has coincided with the increasing diversity of the area, suggesting that the demographic shifts may be related to economic opportunities attracting a more diverse population.
The population has grown from 36,249 in 2013 to 38,990 in 2022, an increase of about 7.5%. This population growth, coupled with the income increase and demographic shifts, points to a community in transition, possibly experiencing some level of economic development and attracting new residents from diverse backgrounds.
The trends observed in this Tuscaloosa zip code align with broader patterns seen in many urban and suburban areas across the United States. The gradual increase in diversity, particularly the growth in Hispanic and multiracial populations, reflects national demographic trends. The modest but steady income growth is consistent with many areas recovering from the 2008 financial crisis and experiencing economic expansion in the following decade.
The persistent lower-middle-income status of the area suggests that while there has been progress, the community may still face economic challenges compared to national averages. The transition from a clear racial majority to a more diverse community composition is a trend observed in many parts of the country, often associated with changing economic landscapes, educational opportunities, and shifting cultural dynamics in urban areas.
The 35401 zip code in Tuscaloosa presents a picture of a community in gradual transition, moving towards greater diversity and experiencing modest economic growth. These changes indicate a community evolving in its demographic makeup and economic status, potentially setting the stage for further diversification and development in the coming years.
