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Demographic Evolution in Great Falls, Montana (ZIP Code 59405): A Study of Racial Composition
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
As of 2022, ZIP code 59405 in Great Falls, Montana, is classified as a "Low Diversity" area with a "White Majority." The white population comprises 80% of the total, exceeding the 75% threshold for low diversity. The community has a population of 31,978 and a median income of $47,756 as of 2022.
Over the past decade, Great Falls has maintained its status as a "Low Diversity" area with a "White Majority." However, subtle shifts indicate a gradual move towards increased diversity. The white population decreased from 86% in 2013 to 80% in 2022. The Hispanic population increased slightly from 4% to 5%. The Native American population grew from 3% to 5%. The population of two or more races doubled from 3% to 6%.
These changes, while not dramatic enough to shift the community into a new category, suggest a slow transition towards greater diversity. The area could be considered a "Transitional Community" in its early stages, particularly given the growth in multiracial and Native American populations.
The median income in Great Falls has fluctuated over the decade. In 2013, it was $48,309, and in 2022, it was $47,756. This represents a slight decrease of 1.1% over nine years, not accounting for inflation. The relatively stable income levels suggest that economic factors may not be the primary driver of the subtle demographic shifts observed.
Population has seen a modest increase. In 2013, it was 29,834, and in 2022, it was 31,978. This 7.2% population growth over nine years could be contributing to the gradual diversification of the community.
Great Falls' gradual diversification aligns with broader national trends of increasing diversity in many American communities. However, the pace of change in Great Falls appears slower than in many urban areas across the United States. The stability in median income, with a slight downward trend when accounting for inflation, may reflect broader economic challenges faced by many small to mid-sized cities in the United States. This economic stagnation could be influencing migration patterns and demographic shifts.
The growth in the Native American population percentage is noteworthy and may reflect regional trends specific to Montana, which has a significant Native American population statewide.
Great Falls remains a "Low Diversity" area with a strong "White Majority," but there are early indications of a gradual transition towards greater diversity. This shift, though slow, aligns with broader national trends towards increased racial and ethnic diversity in American communities. The economic stability, coupled with modest population growth, suggests that these demographic changes are part of a gradual, organic evolution rather than being driven by dramatic economic or policy shifts. As this trend continues, it may eventually lead to a recategorization of Great Falls from "Low Diversity" to "Moderate Diversity" in the coming decades, potentially bringing new cultural dynamics and economic opportunities to the community.
