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Demographic Evolution in Donora, Pennsylvania: White Majority and Increasing Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Donora, Pennsylvania, with a population of 4,561 as of 2022, has undergone significant demographic changes in the past decade. The community is currently classified as having a "White Majority" with moderate diversity. The white population comprises 66% of the total, while other racial groups, particularly Black residents, have a notable presence.
Over the past decade, Donora has transitioned from a community with "Low Diversity" to one approaching "Moderate Diversity." In 2013, the city had a strong "White Majority" at 75%, bordering on "Low Diversity." However, by 2022, this majority had decreased to 66%, while the Black population increased from 18% to 23%.
This shift indicates a "Transitional Community," with a clear trend towards increasing diversity. The Hispanic population, while small, has shown fluctuations, peaking at 7% in 2019 before settling at 3% in 2022. The proportion of residents identifying as two or more races has also increased, from 3% in 2013 to 7% in 2022, further contributing to the diversification trend.
The demographic changes in Donora correlate with a steady increase in median income. From 2013 to 2022, the median income rose from $29,860 to $41,686, an increase of nearly 40%. This economic improvement coincides with the increasing diversity, suggesting a possible link between demographic changes and economic development.
The trends observed in Donora align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in smaller communities. Many rural and suburban areas across the United States have experienced similar demographic shifts, often accompanied by economic changes as new populations bring different skills and economic activities to these areas.
Based on the observed trends, Donora is likely to continue its trajectory towards increased diversity. If current trends persist, we can predict that within the next 5-10 years, the community might transition from a "White Majority" to a "Majority-Minority" status. The Black population, in particular, may continue to grow, potentially leading to a "Black Plurality" if it surpasses the white population while remaining below 50%.
Economically, if the correlation between increasing diversity and rising median income continues, we might expect further modest economic growth. However, given the city's small size and historical economic challenges, this growth may be gradual and potentially vulnerable to broader economic trends.
Donora exemplifies a "Transitional Community" moving towards greater racial diversity and experiencing modest economic improvements. This transition presents both opportunities and challenges for community cohesion, economic development, and local governance in the coming years.
