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Demographic and Economic Trends in Forest Highlands: A Predominantly White Neighborhood in Lake Oswego, Oregon
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Forest Highlands, a neighborhood in Lake Oswego, Oregon, is classified as a Low Diversity area with a White Majority comprising 85% of the population as of 2022. The neighborhood's median income was $100,750 in 2022, indicating an affluent community, though this represents a decrease from previous years. Forest Highlands is characterized by its wooded surroundings and proximity to Oswego Lake, contributing to its desirability within the Portland metropolitan area.
Over the past decade, Forest Highlands has maintained its status as a Low Diversity, White Majority neighborhood. However, subtle shifts in racial composition suggest a gradual trend towards increased diversity. The White population decreased from 91% in 2013 to 85% in 2022. The Asian population increased from 3% in 2013 to 5% in 2022. The Hispanic population fluctuated, peaking at 8% in 2021 before decreasing to 3% in 2022. The Two or More Races category grew from 3% in 2013 to 5% in 2022. These changes indicate a slow transition towards greater diversity.
The median income in Forest Highlands has shown significant fluctuations. It peaked at $142,157 in 2018, increased from $112,257 in 2013. There was a sharp decline to $105,737 in 2020, likely influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. The income rebounded to $132,399 in 2021 but dropped again to $100,750 in 2022. These economic shifts do not appear to directly correlate with the gradual demographic changes, suggesting other factors may have a more significant impact on income levels in this affluent area.
The slow diversification trend in Forest Highlands aligns with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in suburban areas, particularly those near major metropolitan centers. However, the pace of change in Forest Highlands appears slower than national averages, which could be attributed to its high property values and established community character.
The income fluctuations, particularly the sharp drops in 2020 and 2022, likely reflect broader economic challenges faced nationwide, including the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic recovery efforts. However, even at its lowest point, the median income in Forest Highlands remains significantly above the national average, underscoring the neighborhood's continued affluence.
Forest Highlands is experiencing a gradual transition towards greater diversity, but it remains a predominantly White, affluent community. The economic volatility observed in recent years, coupled with the slow demographic shifts, may indicate the beginning of more significant changes in the neighborhood's socio-economic fabric, though it is likely to maintain its overall character in the near future.
