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Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 78243: Transition from White Majority to Moderate Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The zip code 78243, Lackland AFB, Texas, exhibited a demographic profile categorized as "Moderate Diversity" in 2022. The white population constituted 53% of the total, falling short of the "White Majority" classification threshold. The area's population of 282 residents in 2022 and its status as a military installation contribute to its demographic composition.
Over the past decade, this zip code has undergone demographic changes. The area transitioned from a "White Majority" classification in 2013, with 60% white population, to "Moderate Diversity" in 2022, with 53% white population. The Hispanic population increased from 17% in 2013 to 24% in 2022. The Black population remained relatively constant, between 12-17% throughout the decade.
Between 2017 and 2020, the community approached the "High Diversity" category, with the white population dropping to 41% and three racial groups (White, Hispanic, and Black) each representing over 10% of the population. The median income showed an overall upward trend, increasing from $67,383 in 2013 to $74,281 in 2022, a 10.2% increase over the decade.
Despite the overall increase, there were significant income fluctuations, with a peak of $81,294 in 2019 followed by a decline during the COVID-19 pandemic. The total population remained relatively stable, ranging from 222 to 287 residents over the decade, with a slight increase in recent years.
As an Air Force Base, this zip code's demographics are likely influenced by military assignments and rotations, which could explain some of the fluctuations in racial composition and population. The overall increase in median income (10.2% over a decade) potentially reflects broader economic trends or changes in military compensation. The trend towards greater diversity, particularly the growth in the Hispanic population, aligns with broader national demographic shifts seen in many parts of the United States.
Zip code 78243 exemplifies a "Transitional Community," evolving from a predominantly white area to one of moderate diversity. This transition, coupled with overall positive economic trends, suggests a dynamic and changing community, likely influenced by its unique status as a military installation. The interplay between demographic shifts and economic fluctuations provides a case study of diversity and economic development in a small, specialized community setting.
