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Demographic and Economic Trends in Cliff Island: A Study of Low Diversity and Income Growth
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Cliff Island, a neighborhood in Portland, Maine, exhibits characteristics of Low Diversity, with a white population of 87% as of 2022. The island community, with a population of 228 in 2022, has experienced economic growth over the past decade, with median income rising from $51,111 in 2013 to $81,999 in 2022. Cliff Island is one of the few year-round island communities in Casco Bay.
Over the past decade, Cliff Island has maintained its status as a Low Diversity community. The white population decreased from 96% in 2013 to 87% in 2022. The Asian population increased from 1% in 2013 to 3% in 2022, with a peak of 5% in 2020. The Two or More Races category grew from 2% in 2013 to 8% in 2022. These trends indicate a gradual diversification of the island's population.
The economic trajectory of Cliff Island has been positive over the past decade. Median income increased by about 60% from 2013 to 2022. The population fluctuated during this period, dropping from 243 in 2010 to 140 in 2016, before increasing to 228 in 2022. This population change occurred alongside the increase in median income, potentially indicating a transition in the resident population.
The trends observed in Cliff Island reflect patterns seen in many coastal and island communities across the United States. Many such areas have experienced gentrification and increased property values, often leading to demographic shifts and rising incomes. Cliff Island's changes appear more gradual compared to rapid gentrification seen in some urban areas.
The island's persistent Low Diversity status, despite slight increases in diversity, contrasts with national trends towards increasing diversity in many communities. This could be attributed to its isolated island nature and small population, which may limit rapid demographic changes.
The significant income growth on Cliff Island outpaces the national average. While the U.S. median household income grew by about 10% from 2013 to 2022 (adjusted for inflation), Cliff Island's grew by approximately 60%. This suggests that the island may be becoming an increasingly desirable location for higher-income residents.
In conclusion, Cliff Island remains a Low Diversity community, but is experiencing subtle demographic shifts and significant economic growth. These changes may be slowly transforming the character of this small island community, potentially bringing both opportunities and challenges for long-term residents and newcomers alike.
