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Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 59824: Racial Composition and Economic Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
As of 2022, zip code 59824 in Kicking Horse, Montana, is classified as a "Low Diversity" area with a White Majority. The white population comprises 63% of the total, while Native Americans constitute 18%. The area has experienced moderate economic fluctuations over the past decade, with a current median income of $43,977, which is slightly lower than its peak in 2018.
Over the past decade, Kicking Horse has maintained its status as a White Majority community, but has shown a trend towards increased diversity. The white population decreased from 72% in 2019 to 63% in 2022, while the Native American population increased from 15% to 18% during the same period. This shift, along with growth in the Hispanic and Two or More Races categories, indicates a gradual transition towards a more diverse community composition.
The area has not reached the threshold for "Moderate Diversity," but the consistent decline in the white population percentage and the growth of other racial groups suggest a slow but steady movement in that direction. If this trend continues, the community could potentially transition to a "Moderate Diversity" or "Majority-Minority" status in the coming years.
The median income in Kicking Horse has shown significant volatility over the past decade. From 2013 to 2018, there was a substantial increase from $37,498 to $53,783, suggesting a period of economic growth. However, since 2018, there has been a general downward trend, with the median income dropping to $43,977 in 2022.
The period of increasing diversity (2019-2022) coincides with this economic downturn. This correlation could suggest that economic challenges may be driving demographic changes, possibly due to shifts in employment opportunities or housing affordability attracting a more diverse population.
The population has remained relatively stable over the decade, fluctuating between about 1,400 and 1,600 residents. The slight population growth from 2021 to 2022 (from 1,457 to 1,576) occurred alongside a decrease in median income, which could indicate an influx of lower-income residents or economic pressures on existing residents.
The trends observed in Kicking Horse reflect some broader national patterns. Many rural and small-town areas across the United States have been experiencing gradual increases in diversity, often driven by economic factors and changing migration patterns. The economic volatility seen in this community is also consistent with challenges faced by many rural areas, which often have less diverse economic bases and can be more susceptible to economic shocks.
The significant Native American population in this area is a distinctive feature, likely reflecting the community's proximity to tribal lands or reservations. This demographic composition sets Kicking Horse apart from many other rural communities and may play a crucial role in local cultural and economic dynamics.
In conclusion, while Kicking Horse remains a predominantly white community with low overall diversity, it is showing signs of gradual demographic change. These shifts, occurring against a backdrop of economic fluctuations, suggest a community in transition. Monitoring these trends in the coming years will be crucial to understanding the long-term demographic and economic trajectory of this Montana community.
