Loading Content...
Demographic and Racial Composition Analysis of Ridgecrest Neighborhood, Midwest City, Oklahoma
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Ridgecrest neighborhood in Midwest City, Oklahoma, as of 2022, is classified as a "White Majority" community with moderate diversity. The white population comprises 55% of residents, while other racial groups, notably Black (23%) and multiracial (9%) individuals, contribute to the diversity. The neighborhood's median income in 2022 is $61,912, reflecting economic fluctuations over the past decade. Ridgecrest's proximity to Tinker Air Force Base likely influences its demographic composition and economic conditions.
Over the past decade, Ridgecrest has transitioned from a community with "Low Diversity" to one with "Moderate Diversity." In 2013, the neighborhood was categorized as "White Majority" with 64% of the population identifying as white. By 2022, this percentage decreased to 55%, barely maintaining its "White Majority" status. Notable demographic shifts include a steady increase in the Black population from 25% in 2013 to 29% in 2020, before settling at 23% in 2022; a significant rise in the multiracial population from 5% in 2013 to 11% in 2021, and 9% in 2022; and a gradual increase in the Hispanic population from 2% in 2013 to 6% in 2022. These changes suggest Ridgecrest is becoming a "Transitional Community," moving towards greater diversity.
The median income in Ridgecrest has shown volatility over the past decade. From 2013 to 2020, there was a general upward trend, with median income rising from $48,554 to $70,710. However, the last two years have seen a decline, with the median income dropping to $61,912 in 2022. The period of increasing diversity (2013-2020) coincided with rising median incomes, potentially suggesting that the influx of diverse populations may have brought new economic opportunities or reflected broader economic growth in the area. The recent decline in median income (2020-2022) occurred simultaneously with a slight reversal in some diversity trends, such as the decrease in the Black population percentage.
The population of Ridgecrest has remained relatively stable over the decade, fluctuating between about 3,500 and 4,000 residents. This stability in population size, combined with the changing racial demographics, indicates that the shifts are likely due to both in-migration of diverse groups and out-migration of some white residents, rather than significant overall population growth or decline.
The demographic shifts observed in Ridgecrest align with broader national trends towards increasing diversity in suburban areas. Many U.S. cities and suburbs have experienced similar transitions, with growing multiracial, Hispanic, and Black populations contributing to more diverse communities. The economic fluctuations, particularly the recent decline in median income, may reflect national economic challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath. However, the overall increase in median income over the decade suggests that Ridgecrest has generally kept pace with or exceeded national income growth trends.
The proximity to Tinker Air Force Base likely plays a significant role in the neighborhood's demographic and economic patterns. Military bases often contribute to increased diversity in surrounding areas due to the diverse nature of military personnel. The base's presence may also help explain the economic resilience of the area, as military installations can provide stable employment and economic activity. In conclusion, Ridgecrest exemplifies a community in transition, moving towards greater diversity while navigating economic challenges. These changes reflect broader national trends and highlight the dynamic nature of suburban demographics in the United States.
