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Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 35481: Transition to Moderate Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The zip code 35481 in Reform, Alabama, has been categorized as a "Moderate Diversity" community as of 2022. The population of 2,926 has a median income of $38,667. The community's demographic composition consists of 48% White and 46% Black populations, with small percentages of Hispanic and multiracial residents.
From 2013 to 2022, the community transitioned from a "White Majority" to "Moderate Diversity". The White population decreased while the Black population increased. By 2022, the combined minority population (Black, Hispanic, and Two or More Races) comprised 52% of the total, approaching Majority-Minority status. The "Two or More Races" category increased from 1% in 2013 to 4% in 2022.
The median income grew from $33,840 in 2013 to $38,667 in 2022, an increase of about 14%. This growth was not steady, with significant year-to-year fluctuations. The median income peaked at $42,581 in 2021 before declining in 2022. The overall population decreased from 3,380 in 2013 to 2,926 in 2022, a drop of about 13%.
The demographic shifts in Reform align with national trends of increasing diversity in small towns and rural areas. The transition from a White majority to near Majority-Minority status is more pronounced than in many similar-sized communities. The economic fluctuations, particularly the recent decline in median income, may indicate broader economic challenges faced by small towns in the region.
The population decline, combined with increasing diversity, suggests potential outmigration of some demographic groups while simultaneously attracting or retaining others. This could be due to changes in local industries, educational opportunities, or other socio-economic factors.
Reform is undergoing a significant demographic transition, moving from a predominantly White community to one of Moderate Diversity. This shift is occurring against a backdrop of economic fluctuations and population decline, presenting both opportunities and challenges for community cohesion and economic development. As the town approaches Majority-Minority status, it may need to adapt its social and economic policies to address the needs of an increasingly diverse population while also working to stabilize its economy and retain residents.
