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Demographic Evolution of Lago Estancia: From White Majority to Increasing Racial Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Lago Estancia, a neighborhood in Gilbert, Arizona, demonstrates characteristics of a White Majority community with moderate diversity. As of 2022, the white population constitutes 64% of the neighborhood, with significant representation from Asian and Hispanic populations. The median income of $82,130 in 2022 indicates an upper-middle-class community. Lago Estancia is designed as a master-planned community with artificial lakes and outdoor recreational amenities.
Over the past decade, Lago Estancia has maintained its White Majority status while increasing in diversity. In 2013, the neighborhood had Low Diversity, with a 66% white population, 21% Hispanic, and 7% Black. By 2022, it transitioned to Moderate Diversity, with the Asian population growing from 4% to 11%, while the Hispanic population remained between 16-19%.
The most notable change is the growth of the Asian population, which more than doubled from 4% in 2013 to 11% in 2022, suggesting Lago Estancia is becoming a Transitional Community. The Hispanic population has remained a significant presence, contributing to the neighborhood's multicultural character.
The median income in Lago Estancia has fluctuated but shown an overall upward trend. From $71,176 in 2013, it rose to $93,321 in 2018, before settling at $82,130 in 2022. This economic growth correlates with the increasing diversity, particularly the rise in the Asian population, often associated with high-skilled, well-paid professions. The population has remained relatively stable between 1,500 to 1,900 residents over the decade.
The demographic shifts in Lago Estancia align with broader trends seen in many suburban areas across the United States, particularly in the Southwest. The growth in Asian and Hispanic populations reflects national trends of increasing diversity in suburban communities. The steady increase in median income mirrors patterns seen in many desirable suburban areas.
Compared to national trends, Lago Estancia's transition appears more gradual and stable. While many urban areas have experienced rapid gentrification or demographic turnover, this neighborhood seems to be evolving more organically, maintaining a strong white majority while steadily increasing its diversity.
The economic resilience of the neighborhood, evidenced by its consistently high median income through national economic fluctuations, suggests that Lago Estancia may be benefiting from Gilbert's overall economic strength. Gilbert has been recognized as one of the fastest-growing municipalities in Arizona, known for its high quality of life and strong job market.
Lago Estancia represents a microcosm of broader suburban demographic shifts, characterized by increasing diversity and economic prosperity. Its evolution from a predominantly white, low-diversity area to a moderately diverse, affluent community reflects changing patterns of suburban living across the United States.
