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Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 61042: A Predominantly White Rural Community
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The zip code 61042 in Harmon, Illinois, is classified as a "Low Diversity" community as of 2022. The population is 93% white, with the area covering 61.75 square miles and having a population of 429 people in 2022. This indicates a sparsely populated rural region.
Harmon has maintained its status as a "Low Diversity" community over the past decade. The white population has consistently remained above 93%. Minor fluctuations in the Hispanic population, ranging from 2% to 6%, have occurred, but these have not significantly altered the area's demographic categorization. Since 2020, a small percentage (1-2%) of residents identifying as two or more races has emerged, but this change has not substantially impacted the overall demographic composition.
The median income in Harmon has increased from $55,633 in 2013 to $72,937 in 2022, representing a growth of about 31% over nine years. A significant increase occurred from $61,890 in 2019 to $72,944 in 2020, with a peak of $83,377 in 2021 before a slight decrease in 2022. Conversely, the population has declined from a peak of 593 in 2013 to 429 in 2022, a reduction of about 27.7%.
The demographic stability of Harmon contrasts with national trends towards increasing diversity in many parts of the United States. While urban and suburban areas have experienced significant shifts in racial composition, this rural Illinois community has maintained its predominantly white demographic.
The economic growth in Harmon, particularly the sharp increase in median income between 2019 and 2021, coincides with the COVID-19 pandemic period. This could suggest that the local economy was relatively resilient or benefited from broader economic shifts during this time.
The declining population alongside rising incomes presents a dynamic potentially indicative of broader trends affecting rural America. Some areas are experiencing population loss even as local economies show signs of improvement. Factors such as aging populations, outmigration of younger residents, or changes in local industries could contribute to this pattern.
In conclusion, Harmon has remained demographically stable as a low-diversity, predominantly white community over the past decade. However, it has experienced significant economic changes and population decline. These trends suggest a community in transition, balancing economic growth with demographic challenges typical of many rural American areas.
