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Demographic Evolution of Meador Park: A Study of Racial Composition and Economic Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Meador Park, a neighborhood in Springfield, Missouri, exhibits low diversity with a predominantly White population of 79% in 2022. The area experienced population growth from 5,220 residents in 2010 to 6,042 in 2022. The median income in 2022 was $37,324, below the national median household income. Meador Park is situated near the Meador Park Golf Course.
Over the past decade, Meador Park has maintained its status as a low diversity neighborhood, with the White population consistently comprising over 75% of residents. The White population decreased from 90% in 2013 to 79% in 2022. The Hispanic population increased from 4% in 2013 to 6% in 2022, with a peak of 9% in 2021. Asian and Black populations grew to 4% and 5% respectively by 2022. The percentage of residents identifying as two or more races increased from 0% in 2013 to 6% in 2022.
The median income in Meador Park showed an upward trend with fluctuations. From 2013 to 2019, median income increased from $31,929 to $40,223, representing 26% growth. In 2020, there was a decline to $37,733. Since then, income levels have remained relatively stable, with a slight decrease to $37,324 in 2022.
The economic trends correlate somewhat with the demographic shifts. As the neighborhood has become slightly more diverse, there has been a general improvement in median income, though this progress has stalled in recent years.
The gradual diversification of Meador Park aligns with broader national trends of increasing diversity in suburban and urban areas. The pace of change in Meador Park appears to be slower than national averages. The modest income growth followed by recent stagnation reflects wider economic patterns seen in many working-class communities across the United States, particularly after the 2020 economic downturn.
The neighborhood's proximity to amenities like the Meador Park Golf Course may have contributed to its ability to attract a more diverse population over time, as recreational facilities can be a draw for new residents from various backgrounds.
Meador Park remains a predominantly White, working-class neighborhood, but shows signs of gradual transition towards greater diversity. The economic trajectory, though positive over the long term, has faced challenges in recent years, mirroring broader national economic trends. As the community continues to evolve, it will be important to monitor how these demographic and economic shifts impact local dynamics, community services, and overall quality of life for residents.
