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Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 36801: Racial Composition and Economic Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Zip code 36801 in Opelika, Alabama, is classified as a "Moderate Diversity" community as of 2022. The area has a White majority (55%) with a significant Black population (37%), and smaller Hispanic (5%) and Asian (2%) populations. The median income for 2022 was $55,500, showing an increase from previous years.
Over the past decade, this zip code has undergone a gradual transition in its racial composition. In 2013, it was classified as a "Racial Plurality" community, with whites (50%) and blacks (40%) being the two largest groups. By 2018, it had shifted to a "Majority-Minority" status, with combined minority populations slightly exceeding 50%. From 2021 onwards, the area transitioned back to a white majority at 55%.
This shift suggests a "Transitional Community" status, as there have been noticeable changes in racial makeup over time. The Hispanic population has increased from 2% in 2017 to 5% in 2022, indicating a growing presence of this group in the community.
The median income in this zip code has shown an upward trend, rising from $46,866 in 2013 to $55,500 in 2022, an increase of about 18.4% over nine years. This growth correlates with the demographic shifts observed, particularly the increase in the white population percentage and the growth of the Hispanic community.
A significant jump in median income occurred between 2019 ($52,614) and 2021 ($57,763), coinciding with the shift back to a white majority in the area. This suggests that the incoming white population may have higher incomes, potentially affecting property values and the economic landscape of the community.
The population has grown from 22,356 in 2013 to 24,023 in 2022, an increase of about 7.5%. This moderate population growth, combined with the income increase, suggests a gradually improving economic situation in the area.
The demographic shifts observed in this zip code reflect broader trends seen in many American communities. The increasing diversity, particularly the growth of the Hispanic population, aligns with national demographic trends. The economic growth appears to be moderate compared to national averages, indicating steady but not rapid economic development in Opelika.
The transition back to a white majority in recent years, coupled with income growth, might suggest a pattern of gentrification or changing neighborhood preferences. This could potentially lead to shifts in local businesses, housing markets, and community dynamics.
Zip code 36801 in Opelika, Alabama, presents a picture of a community in transition, with moderate diversity and gradual economic improvement. The interplay between demographic shifts and economic changes suggests a dynamic community that may continue to evolve in the coming years.
