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Demographic and Economic Analysis of Little Diamond Island: A Low Diversity, White Majority Neighborhood
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Little Diamond Island, a neighborhood in Portland, Maine, represents a Low Diversity community with a White Majority. As of 2022, 91% of the population identifies as white, with a Hispanic presence of 4%. The neighborhood has experienced significant economic fluctuations over the past decade, with median income dropping from $174,999 in 2016 to $35,576 in 2022. Little Diamond Island is characterized by its small, close-knit community and seasonal population fluctuations.
Throughout the analyzed period (2013-2022), Little Diamond Island has consistently maintained its status as a Low Diversity community with a White Majority. The white population has remained above 90% for most years, with only minor fluctuations. A subtle shift began in 2021 with the introduction of a small Hispanic population (5%), which slightly decreased to 4% in 2022. This minor change could potentially indicate the early stages of a Transitional Community, albeit at a very slow pace.
The economic landscape of Little Diamond Island has undergone significant changes over the past decade. Median income peaked at $174,999 in 2016, then experienced a sharp decline to $35,576 by 2022. This substantial drop in median income does not appear to correlate directly with demographic shifts, as the racial composition remained relatively stable during this period. The economic downturn might be attributed to external factors such as changes in the local economy, shifts in the type of residents, or broader economic trends affecting high-income communities.
Population figures have fluctuated over the years, ranging from a low of 7 in 2019 to a high of 23 in 2022. The recent population increase, coupled with the decrease in median income, could suggest a shift in the type of residents or economic opportunities available on the island.
The demographic stability of Little Diamond Island contrasts with national trends towards increasing diversity in many urban and suburban areas. However, the economic volatility experienced by the neighborhood aligns with broader patterns of income inequality and economic instability seen in many U.S. communities over the past decade.
The island's unique characteristics as a small, isolated community likely contribute to its demographic stability. Many island communities across the United States face challenges in diversifying their populations due to limited access, higher costs of living, and established community dynamics.
The dramatic income fluctuations, particularly the sharp decline in recent years, could be indicative of broader economic shifts affecting high-income, tourist-dependent areas. Many such communities have faced economic challenges in the wake of economic recessions and the global pandemic.
While Little Diamond Island has maintained its demographic character as a Low Diversity, White Majority community, it has experienced significant economic changes. These shifts, particularly in income levels, may have long-term implications for the community's character and sustainability, potentially leading to more demographic changes in the future if economic trends continue.
