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Demographic Composition and Racial Trends in Waveland Park, Des Moines
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Waveland Park, a neighborhood in Des Moines, Iowa, exhibits a demographic profile characterized by low diversity with a white majority. As of 2022, the white population comprises 86% of the neighborhood. Waveland Park demonstrates relative affluence, with a median income of $94,378 in 2022, which is higher than the national median household income. The neighborhood is known for its historic homes and tree-lined streets.
Over the past decade, Waveland Park has maintained its status as a low diversity neighborhood with a white majority. The percentage of white residents has decreased from 93% in 2019 to 86% in 2022. The black population has increased from 2% in 2019 to 7% in 2022. The Hispanic community has grown from 2% in 2019 to 6% in 2022. Despite these changes, Waveland Park remains categorized as low diversity due to the continued dominance of the white population above 75%.
The demographic shifts in Waveland Park have occurred alongside economic changes. The neighborhood has experienced income growth, with median income rising from $67,400 in 2013 to $94,378 in 2022, an increase of about 40% over nine years. There was a peak in median income at $97,139 in 2021, followed by a slight decrease in 2022. The population has remained relatively stable, growing from 2,851 in 2013 to 3,297 in 2022.
Waveland Park's trends can be contextualized within broader national patterns. The gradual increase in diversity aligns with national trends of increasing racial diversity in suburban and urban neighborhoods. The income growth in Waveland Park outpaces national averages, indicating that the neighborhood has become increasingly affluent relative to national standards. The combination of rising incomes and subtle increases in diversity could suggest early stages of gentrification. The neighborhood's ability to maintain high property values and attract diverse residents suggests a level of economic resilience often associated with well-established, desirable urban areas.
Waveland Park remains a predominantly white, affluent neighborhood. Subtle demographic shifts and significant economic growth over the past decade indicate a gradual transition towards increased diversity and continued economic prosperity. These changes reflect broader national trends of urban demographic evolution and economic development in desirable residential areas.
