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Demographic Analysis of Zip Code 98938: Hispanic Majority and Racial Composition Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The zip code 98938 in Sunnyside, Washington, is classified as a "Hispanic Majority" community as of 2022, with a Hispanic population of 72%. This area has undergone significant demographic changes over the past decade, shifting from a more diverse racial composition to one dominated by a single ethnic group. The median income in 2022 was $71,461, indicating moderate economic stability despite fluctuations in recent years.
In 2013, the community was classified as "Majority-Minority" with Hispanics comprising 61% of the population and whites 37%. Over the subsequent decade, the area transitioned to a clear "Hispanic Majority" status. The Hispanic population grew steadily, reaching 74% in 2021 before slightly decreasing to 72% in 2022. The white population declined from 37% in 2013 to 27% in 2022. This shift indicates a "Transitional Community" status, with a trend towards increasing Hispanic representation.
The community has maintained "Low Diversity" throughout the observed period, with two primary racial groups (Hispanic and White) dominating the demographic landscape. The representation of other racial groups, including those identifying as two or more races, has remained minimal, never exceeding 1% of the population.
The median income in the zip code has fluctuated over the years, potentially correlating with demographic shifts. From 2013 to 2016, as the Hispanic population increased, the median income rose from $67,342 to $77,392. A significant drop to $60,234 occurred in 2019, coinciding with a peak in the Hispanic population percentage. The median income has since rebounded to $71,461 in 2022, suggesting a stabilization of economic conditions despite the continued demographic transition.
The population of the zip code has fluctuated, peaking at 3,917 in 2017 before declining to 3,127 in 2022. This population decrease, coupled with the increasing Hispanic majority, may indicate outmigration of non-Hispanic residents or changes in local economic opportunities.
The demographic shift observed in this zip code aligns with broader national trends of increasing Hispanic populations in many areas of the United States, particularly in agricultural regions. Sunnyside's location in Washington state's Yakima Valley, known for its agricultural industry, may explain the growing Hispanic population, as this sector often attracts Hispanic workers.
The median income fluctuations and recent stabilization suggest that the community may be adapting economically to its changing demographic composition. However, the income levels remain below the Washington state median household income, which was approximately $82,400 in 2021, indicating potential economic challenges or opportunities for growth in this predominantly Hispanic community.
This analysis reveals a trend towards a more homogeneous Hispanic community in zip code 98938, with accompanying economic fluctuations that have recently shown signs of stabilization. The community's evolution from a Majority-Minority to a Hispanic Majority area reflects broader demographic shifts in agricultural regions of the United States, presenting both challenges and opportunities for local economic and social development.
