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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Zip code 50477, encompassing Swaledale in Iowa, is categorized as a "Low Diversity" community. As of 2022, the area is characterized by a strong White Majority, with 95% of the population identified as white. The median income for 2022 was $69,722, and the population stood at 305 residents.
Over the past decade, Swaledale has consistently maintained its status as a "Low Diversity" community. The white population has remained overwhelmingly dominant, never dropping below 94% throughout the observed period. However, there are subtle signs of a slowly increasing diversity. The Hispanic population, while still small, has grown from being unreported in earlier years to 4% in 2022. The two or more races category has fluctuated slightly, reaching 1% in some years. These minor shifts suggest the very early stages of what could potentially become a "Transitional Community" in the future, albeit at a very slow pace.
The median income in Swaledale has shown a general upward trend over the past decade. From 2013 to 2022, median income increased from $53,657 to $69,722, a rise of approximately 30%. The most significant jump occurred between 2016 and 2017, with an increase from $59,174 to $67,510. This economic growth has occurred alongside the maintenance of the area's racial homogeneity, suggesting that the improving economic conditions have not yet led to significant demographic changes.
Population trends have been relatively stable, with some fluctuations. The population peaked in 2012 at 341 residents. It reached its lowest point in 2016 at 271 residents. Since then, there has been a gradual increase to 305 residents in 2022. The slight population growth in recent years coincides with the gradual increase in diversity, albeit minimal.
The demographic makeup of Swaledale is not reflective of increasing diversity trends seen in many parts of the United States. The median income growth in Swaledale appears to be keeping pace with or slightly exceeding national averages, which is positive for a small, rural community. The stability of the population, with only minor fluctuations, suggests that Swaledale has not experienced significant urban flight or rapid growth, unlike many small towns across the country.
In conclusion, while Swaledale remains a "Low Diversity" community with a strong White Majority, there are subtle indications of very gradual demographic shifts. The economic improvements over the past decade have not yet translated into significant demographic changes, but they may set the stage for more diversity in the future if these trends continue and accelerate. The community's ability to maintain and slightly grow its population, coupled with rising incomes, suggests a stable local economy that could potentially attract more diverse residents in the long term.