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Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 43162: A Predominantly White Community in West Jefferson, Ohio
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Zip code 43162 in West Jefferson, Ohio, is classified as a "Low Diversity" community with a "White Majority" as of 2022. The area has a population of 7,156 and a median household income of $70,868. The white population comprises 95% of the community in 2022, with minimal changes in racial composition over the past decade.
From 2013 to 2022, West Jefferson has maintained its status as a "Low Diversity" community with a strong "White Majority." The white population decreased slightly from 97% in 2013 to 95% in 2022. There were small increases in the Hispanic population (from 0% to 2%) and those identifying as two or more races (from 1% to 3%) during this period. These changes have not significantly altered the community's racial composition.
The community has not transitioned between diversity categories during this time, indicating stable racial demographics. This stability suggests the area has not experienced significant immigration or migration patterns that would lead to increased diversity.
The economic landscape of West Jefferson has seen notable changes. The median household income increased from $58,367 in 2013 to $70,868 in 2022, representing a growth of about 21% over nine years. This increase suggests an improving economic situation for residents, which could be attributed to economic development, attraction of higher-paying jobs, increased property values, or possible gentrification.
The population grew slightly from 7,009 in 2013 to 7,156 in 2022, an increase of about 2%. This modest population growth, coupled with more significant income growth, suggests the area has become more prosperous without dramatically altering its demographic makeup.
The demographic stability of West Jefferson contrasts with national trends, where many communities have experienced increasing diversity over the past decade. The persistence of a "Low Diversity" classification in this zip code suggests it may be somewhat isolated from broader demographic shifts occurring in more urban or rapidly growing areas.
The income growth in West Jefferson appears to outpace inflation, indicating real economic gains for the community. This trend aligns with some national patterns of economic recovery and growth following the 2008 recession, but the lack of accompanying demographic change is less typical of growing, prosperous areas.
The stability in racial composition, combined with economic growth, could indicate that West Jefferson is an established community with strong local ties and possibly limited new development or housing turnover. This scenario often results in demographic inertia, where existing residents become more prosperous but the overall community composition remains largely unchanged.
In conclusion, West Jefferson has experienced notable economic improvements over the past decade, while its racial demographics have remained stable, maintaining its status as a "Low Diversity" community with a strong "White Majority." This pattern of economic growth without significant demographic change presents a case study in community development and the factors that influence or inhibit diversity in small town America.
