Economic trends in the area show notable changes despite stable racial demographics. The median income has increased from $55,216 in 2013 to $69,059 in 2022, representing a 25% rise over nine years and indicating overall economic growth. The population has fluctuated, with a low of 1,442 in 2010 and a high of 1,727 in 2018, settling at 1,559 in 2022.

The economic growth, as evidenced by rising median income, has not significantly impacted the racial composition of the area. This suggests that economic benefits have primarily accrued to the existing population rather than attracting a more diverse influx of new residents.

Melbourne's trend contrasts with many urban and suburban areas across the United States, which have generally seen increasing diversity over the past decade. The stability of the racial composition in this zip code, despite economic growth, may indicate limited migration into the area from diverse populations, possible preferences of the existing population to maintain the current community structure, or a potential lack of economic or social factors that typically drive demographic changes in other areas.

The rising median income aligns with broader national trends of economic recovery and growth following the 2008 recession. This suggests that while the area may be somewhat isolated demographically, it is not immune to larger economic trends.

Zip code 50162 in Melbourne, Iowa, presents a picture of demographic stability coupled with economic growth. The persistence of low diversity over a decade of economic improvement raises questions about the interplay between economic opportunity and demographic change in small, predominantly white communities. This pattern may offer insights into the unique dynamics of rural or small-town America in an era of increasing national diversity.