Loading Content...
Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 35585: Predominantly White Population with Slight Diversity Increase
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The zip code 35585 in Spruce Pine, Alabama, is classified as a "Low Diversity" community as of 2022. The population is predominantly white, with 84% identifying as such. The current median income is $35,445, which is below the national average.
Over the past decade, Spruce Pine has maintained its status as a "Low Diversity" community. The white population has remained dominant, decreasing slightly from 94% in 2018 to 84% in 2022. This indicates a slow trend towards increased diversity, though still within the "Low Diversity" category. The Hispanic population has fluctuated between 5% and 12% over the years, showing variability but no clear trend. The Black population has increased slightly from 0% in 2018 to 4% in 2022.
The median income in Spruce Pine has shown significant fluctuations over the past decade. From $45,510 in 2013, it has generally trended downward, reaching $35,445 in 2022. This represents a decrease of about 22% over nine years. The population has grown from 1,329 in 2013 to 1,605 in 2022, an increase of about 21%. This population growth, coupled with declining median income, suggests that the area might be attracting new residents but not experiencing corresponding economic growth.
The slight increase in racial diversity coincides with this period of economic decline, which could indicate that changing economic conditions are influencing demographic shifts, or vice versa. However, the relationship is not strong enough to draw definitive conclusions.
The trend of increasing diversity, even if slight, is consistent with broader national trends. Many rural and small-town areas across the United States have been experiencing slow increases in diversity over the past decade. The economic decline observed in Spruce Pine is also reflective of challenges faced by many rural communities across the country, particularly in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis and more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic.
Spruce Pine remains a "Low Diversity" community but shows signs of gradual change. The economic challenges evidenced by declining median income, coupled with population growth, present a complex picture of a community in transition. These trends warrant continued observation to understand their long-term implications for the local community and economy.
