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Demographic and Economic Trends in Riverside, California: Hispanic Majority and Income Growth
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Riverside, California, a city with 320,785 residents in 2022, is classified as a "Majority-Minority" community with a strong Hispanic presence. The city's median income reached $81,228 in 2022, indicating significant economic growth over the past decade.
In 2013, Riverside was already a "Majority-Minority" city, with the Hispanic population constituting 53% of the total. This classification has remained consistent, with the Hispanic majority increasing to 56% by 2022. The white population declined from 31% in 2013 to 28% in 2022. The Asian and Black populations have remained relatively stable, around 7-8% and 5-7% respectively, contributing to a "Moderate Diversity" within the non-Hispanic groups.
Riverside has experienced substantial economic growth, with median income rising from $54,300 in 2013 to $81,228 in 2022, a 49.6% increase over nine years. This growth has occurred alongside a slight population decline from the peak of 331,369 in 2019 to 320,785 in 2022.
The strengthening of the Hispanic majority in Riverside aligns with broader trends in California and the southwestern United States. The economic growth observed in Riverside is notable and may outpace state averages.
Based on observed trends, Riverside is likely to maintain its "Majority-Minority" status with a strong Hispanic majority in the near future. The consistent growth in median income suggests continued economic development. If current trends continue, Riverside might transition towards a "Transitional Community" category in the coming years. This could be characterized by a further increase in the Hispanic population, potentially reaching or exceeding 60%; a gradual increase in the Asian population, possibly surpassing 10%; a continued decline in the white population, potentially dropping below 25%; and sustained economic growth, with median incomes potentially reaching or exceeding $90,000 by 2025.
This transition could result in a more economically prosperous but potentially more segregated community. The city's leadership should be prepared to address challenges related to affordable housing, educational equity, and workforce development to maintain social cohesion amidst these demographic and economic shifts.
