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Demographic Analysis of ZIP Code 98837: White Majority Transitioning to Increased Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The zip code 98837 in Moses Lake, Washington, is classified as a "Transitional Community" with a "White Majority" as of 2022. The area has a population of 45,880 and a median income of $64,115. The white population remains the largest group at 58%, but there has been a shift towards increased diversity over the past decade.
From 2013 to 2022, the community transitioned from "Low Diversity" to "Moderate Diversity." The white population decreased from 68% to 58%, while the Hispanic population increased significantly. The community is approaching a "Majority-Minority" status, with minority groups collectively comprising 42% of the population in 2022. The Hispanic community is the largest minority at 34%.
The percentage of residents identifying as two or more races increased from 1% in 2013 to 4% in 2022, indicating a trend towards greater racial mixing and diversity.
The median income has fluctuated over the decade, rising from $57,232 in 2013 to a peak of $73,419 in 2021, before declining to $64,115 in 2022. This volatility may reflect economic uncertainties or shifts in the local job market.
The population has grown steadily from 40,177 in 2013 to 45,880 in 2022, an increase of about 14%. This growth coincides with the increasing diversity, suggesting that new residents may be contributing to the changing demographic landscape.
Periods of higher median income (2020-2021) coincide with increased diversity, potentially indicating that the influx of diverse populations may be linked to economic opportunities or growth in the area.
The demographic shifts observed in this zip code align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in many U.S. communities. The growth of the Hispanic population reflects larger patterns of Hispanic population growth across the country.
The economic fluctuations, especially the recent decline in median income, may be indicative of broader economic challenges faced by many communities in the post-pandemic era. The overall trend of population growth suggests that Moses Lake remains an attractive destination for new residents.
The transition towards greater diversity and the approach towards a majority-minority status is likely to have significant implications for local culture, politics, and economic structures. As the community continues to evolve, it may face both challenges and opportunities in adapting to its changing demographic profile.
