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Demographic and Racial Shifts in Austin's 78702 Zip Code: 2013-2022
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
ZIP code 78702 in Austin, Texas, is classified as a "Majority-Minority" community with "Moderate Diversity" as of 2022. No single racial group comprises more than 50% of the population, with Hispanic (34%) and White (47%) residents forming the largest groups. The area has a median income of $72,668 and a population of 25,503, indicating a densely populated urban area with varied socioeconomic levels.
This zip code has experienced significant demographic changes over the past decade. In 2013, it was categorized as a "Hispanic Majority" area with 55% Hispanic population. By 2022, it had transformed into a "Majority-Minority" community with "Moderate Diversity." This shift is primarily attributed to a decrease in the Hispanic population (from 55% to 34%) and an increase in the White population (from 27% to 47%). The area has maintained its "Majority-Minority" status since 2017 when the Hispanic population fell below 50%.
The demographic shifts correlate with economic changes in the area. The median income has increased from $43,936 in 2013 to $72,668 in 2022, a rise of approximately 65%. This income growth aligns with the increasing White population and decreasing Hispanic population, suggesting a pattern of gentrification. The population has grown from 21,660 in 2013 to 25,503 in 2022, indicating the area's increasing attractiveness.
The trends observed in this zip code reflect broader patterns seen in many urban areas across the United States, particularly in rapidly growing cities like Austin. The shift from a Hispanic Majority to a more diverse, gentrifying area is a common phenomenon in urban cores experiencing economic growth and tech industry expansion.
The 65% increase in median income over 9 years significantly outpaces national averages, suggesting rapid economic changes in this area. This could be indicative of Austin's overall growth as a tech hub and its increasing appeal to higher-income professionals.
The decrease in the Hispanic population percentage, concurrent with overall population growth, suggests potential displacement of some long-term residents. However, the area is also attracting a diverse range of new residents, contributing to its "Moderate Diversity" classification.
In conclusion, ZIP code 78702 has transformed from a predominantly Hispanic, lower-income area to a more economically prosperous, racially diverse community over the past decade. This transition presents both opportunities and challenges, potentially improving local economic conditions while raising concerns about affordability and cultural preservation for long-term residents.
