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Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 51037: A Predominantly White Community with Subtle Shifts
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Zip code 51037, encompassing Meriden in Iowa, is characterized as a Low Diversity community with a White Majority. As of 2022, the racial composition shows 93% white population, with a small Hispanic presence (4%) and individuals of two or more races (2%). The median income for 2022 was $63,008, and the population stood at 229 residents.
Over the past decade, Meriden has consistently maintained its status as a Low Diversity community with a White Majority. The white population has remained above 88% throughout the period from 2013 to 2022. However, there have been subtle shifts within this overall stable racial composition. The Hispanic population increased from 0% in 2014 to 6% in 2019, before settling at 4% in 2022. The percentage of individuals identifying as two or more races increased from 0% in 2016 to 3% in 2021, settling at 2% in 2022.
The median income in Meriden has shown considerable fluctuation over the past decade. From 2013 to 2018, there was a steady increase in median income from $55,873 to $77,255, representing a 38% growth over five years. Since 2018, the median income has been more volatile. It dropped to $65,402 in 2019, rebounded to $76,639 in 2021, and then decreased again to $63,008 in 2022. The period of consistent income growth (2013-2018) coincided with the gradual increase in Hispanic population.
The population of Meriden has fluctuated over the decade. From 2013 to 2018, the population grew from 258 to 298, an increase of about 15%. Since 2018, there's been a decline in population, dropping to 229 in 2022, which is lower than the 2013 level. The population peak in 2018 coincided with the highest median income.
The small population and predominantly white demographic is typical of many rural Midwestern communities. The recent income volatility might reflect broader economic challenges faced by small rural communities. The gradual increase in Hispanic and multiracial populations, though small, aligns with broader national trends of increasing diversity, even in traditionally homogeneous areas.
While Meriden remains a Low Diversity, White Majority community, there are subtle signs of demographic change. The economic fluctuations and recent population decline suggest challenges that may be influencing or being influenced by these demographic shifts. Continued monitoring of these trends will be crucial for understanding the long-term trajectory of this small Iowa community.
