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Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 56244: White Majority and Low Diversity in Hancock, Minnesota
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Zip code 56244 in Hancock, Minnesota, is categorized as a "Low Diversity" community with a "White Majority" as of 2022. The area has a population of 1,755 and a median income of $75,765. This rural community, spanning 116.1 square miles, has experienced subtle demographic shifts and significant economic growth over the past decade.
Throughout the analyzed period (2013-2022), Hancock has maintained its status as a "White Majority" community. From 2013 to 2018, there was a slight trend towards becoming a "Transitional Community," with the percentage of white residents decreasing from 92% to 81%, while Hispanic representation increased from 6% to 12%. Post-2018, this trend reversed, with the white population increasing to 89% by 2022, reinforcing the "Low Diversity" categorization. Despite these fluctuations, the community never approached the thresholds for "Moderate Diversity" or "High Diversity," as no minority group consistently exceeded 20% of the population.
The economic landscape of Hancock has seen substantial growth, correlating with its demographic shifts. Median income rose significantly from $51,460 in 2013 to $75,765 in 2022, a 47% increase. The period of increasing diversity (2013-2018) coincided with steady economic growth, with median income rising to $65,347 by 2018. The reversal towards lower diversity post-2018 corresponded with accelerated income growth, peaking at $74,919 in 2020 before slightly declining and then recovering by 2022. Population growth has been modest, increasing from 1,629 in 2013 to 1,755 in 2022, suggesting that economic improvements were not driven primarily by population influx.
The trend of increasing median income aligns with national patterns of economic recovery and growth following the 2008 recession. The brief period of increasing diversity followed by a return to lower diversity may reflect broader rural demographic trends, where initial increases in minority populations are sometimes followed by outmigration to more urban areas. The significant income growth in a predominantly white, rural community is notable and may indicate local economic development successes or changes in the primary industries supporting the area.
Hancock presents a case of a rural, predominantly white community that has experienced substantial economic growth over the past decade. While there was a brief trend towards increased diversity in the mid-2010s, the community has since reinforced its "Low Diversity" status. This demographic stability, coupled with significant income growth, suggests a community that has found economic success while maintaining its traditional demographic composition. Further research into local industries, educational opportunities, and community initiatives could provide deeper insights into the factors driving these trends.
