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Demographic and Racial Composition Analysis of King Irving Neighborhood, Des Moines
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The King Irving neighborhood in Des Moines, Iowa, exhibits a Moderate Diversity demographic profile with a significant Black plurality. As of 2022, the neighborhood's population is 2,712, with a median income of $26,761. This urban area is known for its historic homes and community-focused initiatives.
Over the past decade, King Irving has maintained its status as a Moderate Diversity community, with fluctuations in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood showed a relatively balanced distribution among Black (31%), Hispanic (29%), and White (20%) populations. By 2022, this balance shifted, with the Black population increasing to 40%, establishing a stronger plurality, while the Hispanic and White populations remained at 28% and 20% respectively.
The neighborhood has consistently met the criteria for Majority-Minority status throughout the observed period, with non-White populations collectively forming the majority. There has been a subtle trend towards increased diversity, with the Asian population fluctuating between 10-20% over the years, contributing to the neighborhood's multicultural character.
The median income in King Irving has shown volatility over the past decade. Starting from $23,164 in 2013, it peaked at $33,590 in 2017, representing a 45% increase. This growth was not sustained, with income levels declining to $25,510 by 2020, before slightly recovering to $26,761 in 2022. This economic instability appears to correlate with demographic shifts, particularly the strengthening of the Black plurality and fluctuations in the Hispanic population.
The population has remained relatively stable, hovering around 2,700-2,900 residents, with minor fluctuations. This stability in population, coupled with income volatility, suggests that while the neighborhood's composition is changing, it is not experiencing significant gentrification or displacement.
The demographic trends in King Irving reflect broader national patterns of increasing diversity in urban neighborhoods. The economic volatility experienced here is more pronounced than national averages, which typically show more gradual changes in median income. The strengthening Black plurality in King Irving contrasts with many urban areas that are seeing increased Hispanic populations.
The neighborhood's persistent income challenges, with median incomes well below the national average (which was around $70,000 in 2021), indicate that King Irving faces ongoing economic hurdles. This economic situation, combined with its diverse demographic makeup, presents both challenges and opportunities for community development and social cohesion initiatives.
King Irving exemplifies a dynamic urban neighborhood navigating the complexities of demographic change and economic fluctuations. Its evolving diversity, coupled with economic challenges, underscores the need for targeted community support and development strategies to leverage its multicultural strengths while addressing persistent income disparities.
