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Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 59922: Predominantly White Population in Lakeside, Montana
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The zip code 59922 in Lakeside, Montana, is classified as a "Low Diversity" area as of 2022. The population is 96% white, a characteristic that has remained stable over the past decade. Despite demographic consistency, the area has experienced fluctuations in population and median income, indicating economic volatility.
From 2013 to 2022, Lakeside maintained its "Low Diversity" status with a "White Majority". The white population consistently represented over 90% of the total, with minimal representation from other racial groups. This suggests a lack of significant demographic change over the past decade. Minor increases in diversity occurred from 2020 onwards, with small percentages of Asian, Hispanic, and multi-racial residents emerging, but these changes did not alter the overall "Low Diversity" classification.
The economic trajectory of Lakeside shows a decline over the past decade. Median income peaked at $79,722 in 2013 and decreased to $54,135 in 2022, representing a 32% drop. The population fluctuated, reaching 1,997 residents in 2015 and declining to 1,544 in 2022. This population decrease coincides with falling median income, suggesting potential outmigration of higher-income residents or an overall economic downturn.
A notable decline in median income occurred from 2019 to 2020 (from $73,783 to $56,713), possibly related to the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. This economic shock appears to have had a lasting effect, as incomes continued to decline in subsequent years.
The trends observed in Lakeside diverge from typical national patterns. While many areas across the United States have experienced increasing diversity over the past decade, Lakeside has maintained its homogeneous racial composition. The significant decline in median income may be more severe than national averages, indicating local economic challenges such as the loss of major employers, changes in industry composition, or broader regional economic struggles.
The fluctuating population, particularly the decline since 2015, suggests that Lakeside is experiencing economic pressures influencing resident retention and attraction. This could be part of broader rural-to-urban migration trends or specific to local or regional factors affecting this area of Montana.
Lakeside has maintained its status as a "Low Diversity" area with a strong "White Majority" while experiencing significant economic challenges over the past decade. The combination of declining median income and fluctuating population suggests a community in economic transition, potentially struggling to maintain its economic base and retain residents. These trends warrant further investigation into local economic policies, job markets, and community development strategies to address the ongoing economic decline.
