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Demographic Composition and Racial Trends in Urbana, Illinois: 2013-2022
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Urbana, Illinois, with a population of approximately 48,755 residents in 2022, exhibits moderate diversity. The city's white population stands at 56%, with significant representations from other racial groups. Over the past decade, Urbana has transitioned from a white majority community to one of moderate diversity. In 2013, the white population was 61%, decreasing to 56% by 2022.
The city has experienced steady increases in its Asian, Hispanic, and multiracial populations, while the Black population has remained stable. This trend suggests a shift towards greater diversity, potentially moving towards a high diversity classification in the future if current trends continue.
Alongside demographic shifts, Urbana has seen overall economic growth. The median income increased from $40,147 in 2013 to $46,508 in 2022, a 15.8% increase. This growth was not linear, with a peak of $51,396 in 2021 before a slight decline in 2022.
Periods of significant income growth (2015-2016 and 2019-2021) coincide with increases in the Asian and Hispanic populations, suggesting a possible correlation between increased diversity and economic prosperity in the city.
Urbana's trends align with patterns observed in many American cities, where increasing diversity often correlates with economic growth, particularly in university towns.
Based on observed trends, Urbana is likely to continue its trajectory towards increased diversity. If current patterns persist, the city may transition from moderate diversity to high diversity within the next 5-10 years. This shift would occur if the white population drops below 50% and at least three racial groups maintain significant representation (over 10% each).
Economically, the city may continue to see growth in median income, especially if it can leverage its increasing diversity to attract new businesses and talent. However, the recent dip in income (2021-2022) should be monitored to ensure it's not the beginning of a downward trend.
Urbana represents a transitional community that is evolving from a predominantly white city to one of rich diversity. This transition, coupled with overall economic growth, positions Urbana as a dynamic location for a wide range of residents and businesses in the coming years.
