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Demographic Evolution in ZIP Code 30818: A Study of Racial Composition in Matthews, Georgia
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
ZIP code 30818 in Matthews, Georgia, is categorized as a "White Majority" community with moderate diversity as of 2022. The area has a population of 588 and a median income of $51,105. This small, rural community has experienced significant demographic and economic changes over the past decade.
From 2013 to 2022, Matthews has consistently maintained its status as a "White Majority" community. However, there have been notable fluctuations in racial composition. The white population decreased from 63% in 2013 to a low of 55% in 2016, before increasing again to 66% in 2022. The black population increased from 24% in 2013 to a peak of 35% in 2017, then decreased to 27% in 2022. Other racial groups, including Asians and Hispanics, have maintained a small but growing presence, indicating a trend towards increased diversity.
The median income in Matthews has shown considerable volatility. From 2013 to 2019, median income fluctuated between $38,313 and $61,408. A significant jump occurred in 2021, with median income reaching $74,143, before declining to $51,105 in 2022. This economic instability coincides with demographic shifts, suggesting a possible correlation between racial composition changes and economic conditions.
The population of Matthews has fluctuated significantly. It peaked at 871 in 2016, coinciding with the lowest percentage of white residents (55%). By 2022, the population had decreased to 588, the lowest in the observed period, while the white majority increased to 66%. These population changes, coupled with racial composition shifts, indicate a dynamic and potentially unstable community demographic.
The demographic shifts in Matthews reflect broader national trends of increasing diversity in rural areas. However, the community's retention of a white majority contrasts with the rapid diversification seen in many urban and suburban areas across the United States. The economic volatility experienced in Matthews, particularly the sharp increase and subsequent decrease in median income between 2020 and 2022, may be indicative of broader economic challenges faced by small, rural communities, potentially exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Matthews, Georgia (ZIP code 30818) presents a complex picture of a small, rural community undergoing significant demographic and economic changes. While maintaining its status as a "White Majority" area, the community has shown signs of increasing diversity and economic volatility. These trends suggest a community in transition, potentially facing challenges related to integration, economic stability, and population retention. Further investigation into local policies, economic drivers, and community initiatives would provide a more comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing these demographic and economic shifts.
