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Demographic and Racial Shifts in Ocotillo Oracle: A Neighborhood Study
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Ocotillo Oracle, a neighborhood in Tucson, Arizona, exhibits characteristics of a Moderate Diversity community with a significant Hispanic population. As of 2022, the neighborhood has a population of 1,485 and a median income of $29,980. Ocotillo Oracle is located near the University of Arizona.
Over the past decade, Ocotillo Oracle has undergone demographic changes. In 2013, the neighborhood had Moderate Diversity, with a White plurality (42%) and significant Hispanic representation (34%). By 2020, the community transitioned to a Majority-Minority status, with the Hispanic population becoming the largest group (46%) while the White population decreased to 30%. This shift indicates a Transitional Community trend towards increased diversity. In 2021-2022, there was a slight reversal, with the White population increasing to 42%, returning the neighborhood to a Moderate Diversity classification.
The median income in Ocotillo Oracle has shown growth over the decade. From 2013 to 2019, income growth increased from $17,608 to $21,311. Between 2019 and 2021, median income reached $35,755 before settling at $29,980 in 2022. This economic improvement coincides with the period of increased diversity and the shift to a Majority-Minority status.
The demographic shifts in Ocotillo Oracle reflect trends seen in many urban areas across the United States, particularly in university towns. The increase in Hispanic population aligns with national trends of growing Hispanic communities. The economic growth, especially the increase from 2019 to 2021, may be partly attributed to national economic trends and policy changes during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The neighborhood's proximity to the University of Arizona likely contributes to its diversity and economic fluctuations. University areas often experience higher turnover rates and attract a diverse population of students, faculty, and support staff, which can lead to rapid demographic changes and varying income levels.
Ocotillo Oracle represents an urban neighborhood that has experienced demographic and economic changes over the past decade. Its transition through various diversity categories reflects the interplay of local, regional, and national factors shaping urban communities. The correlation between increased diversity and economic growth in this neighborhood provides a case study for urban planners and policymakers considering the impacts of demographic change on local economies.
