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Demographic and Economic Trends in Countryside East: A Predominantly White Neighborhood in Transition
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Countryside East neighborhood in Prairie Village, Kansas, is characterized as a Low Diversity area with a White Majority of 88% as of 2022. The neighborhood has experienced economic growth, with median income increasing from $89,631 in 2018 to $118,057 in 2022. Countryside East is known for its mid-century modern homes, which contribute to its architectural character.
Over the past decade, Countryside East has maintained its status as a Low Diversity community with a strong White Majority. From 2013 to 2021, the White population remained above 90%. In 2022, the White population decreased to 88%, while the Hispanic population increased to 10%. This change suggests the beginning of a potential Transitional Community trend. Other racial groups have had minimal representation throughout the decade, with slight increases in Asian and Black populations in recent years.
The demographic shifts in Countryside East correlate with economic changes. Median income increased from $88,438 in 2013 to $118,057 in 2022, representing a 33.5% growth over the decade. A significant increase in median income occurred between 2019 ($92,421) and 2020 ($119,286), coinciding with the start of more visible demographic changes. The population fluctuated over the years, decreasing from 2,539 in 2013 to 1,818 in 2019, before increasing to 2,347 in 2022.
The increasing median income suggests that the neighborhood is attracting more affluent residents, which may be contributing to the gradual diversification of the community. The recent increase in population, coupled with rising incomes and increasing diversity, indicates that Countryside East is becoming more attractive to a wider range of residents.
The trend towards increased diversity aligns with broader national trends of suburbanization of diversity, where traditionally homogeneous suburbs are experiencing demographic changes. The significant income growth in Countryside East outpaces the national average, suggesting that this neighborhood is particularly attractive to high-income earners. The maintenance of a strong White Majority in this suburban area contrasts with more rapid diversification seen in many urban centers across the United States.
Countryside East is showing early signs of transitioning from a highly homogeneous community to one with slightly more diversity, particularly with the increase in Hispanic residents. This shift, combined with strong economic growth, suggests that the neighborhood is evolving while maintaining its appeal to affluent residents. The coming years will be crucial in determining whether this trend towards increased diversity continues or stabilizes, potentially reshaping the community's character and socio-economic landscape.
