Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 72722: White Majority with Increasing Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
DATA SOURCE
Zip code 72722 in Decatur, Arkansas, is classified as a "White Majority" community with moderate diversity as of 2022. The white population comprises 63% of the total, with other racial groups having significant representation. The median income for 2022 was $71,696, indicating a relatively prosperous area compared to previous years.
Decatur has transitioned from a "Low Diversity" community to one with "Moderate Diversity" over the past decade. In 2013, the white population constituted 66% of the total, with minimal representation from other groups. By 2022, while still maintaining a white majority, the community has experienced significant increases in representation from other racial groups.
The most notable changes include an increase in the Hispanic population from 17% in 2013 to 22% in 2016, before settling at 14% in 2022; a substantial rise in the "Two or More Races" category, from 2% in 2013 to 14% in 2022; and small but consistent increases in Asian, Black, and Native American populations. These shifts suggest that Decatur is becoming a "Transitional Community," moving towards greater diversity over time.
The demographic changes have coincided with significant economic growth. The median income has risen from $47,467 in 2013 to $71,696 in 2022, an increase of over 50%. This economic improvement appears to correlate with the increasing diversity of the community. The population has remained relatively stable over this period, fluctuating between about 2,700 and 3,300 residents.
The trends observed in Decatur align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in small to medium-sized communities. The substantial increase in median income also reflects a general trend of economic growth in many parts of the United States over the past decade. The rise in the "Two or More Races" category mirrors a national trend of increasing multiracial identification.
The economic growth in Decatur appears to be more pronounced than national averages. The correlation between increasing diversity and rising incomes could indicate that the community is attracting a skilled, diverse workforce, potentially tied to evolving industries or economic opportunities in the region.
Decatur presents a picture of a community in transition, moving from low to moderate diversity while experiencing significant economic growth. These changes suggest a dynamic local environment that may be adapting to broader demographic and economic trends, potentially positioning the community for continued evolution in the coming years.
