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Demographic Evolution of Park of the Canals: From White Majority to Hispanic Plurality
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Park of the Canals in Mesa, Arizona, currently exhibits a Majority-Minority demographic composition with a Hispanic plurality. As of 2022, the neighborhood's median income is $64,108. The area is known for its archaeological significance, containing remnants of ancient Hohokam canals.
Over the past decade, Park of the Canals has undergone a significant transformation in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood was categorized as having a White Majority, with 69% of the population identifying as white. By 2022, the area transitioned to a Majority-Minority status with a Hispanic plurality (40% Hispanic, 41% White).
This shift can be attributed to a steady decline in the white population percentage, a substantial increase in the Hispanic population, and moderate growth in other minority populations, particularly Black and Asian communities. The neighborhood has evolved from Low Diversity in 2013 to Moderate Diversity by 2022, with three racial groups (White, Hispanic, and Black) having significant representation.
The demographic shifts in Park of the Canals correlate with notable changes in median income. From 2013 to 2019, median income remained relatively stable, fluctuating between $45,846 and $51,793. A significant jump occurred between 2019 and 2020, with median income rising from $51,793 to $63,812. This higher income level has been maintained through 2022, with the latest figure at $64,108.
Population growth has been modest but steady, increasing from 4,528 in 2013 to 5,387 in 2022, indicating a gradual expansion of the community alongside its diversification.
The demographic shifts observed in Park of the Canals align with broader trends seen in many suburban areas across the United States, particularly in the Southwest. The increasing Hispanic population reflects the growing Hispanic influence in Arizona and neighboring states.
The transition from a White Majority to a Majority-Minority community within a decade is more rapid than typical national trends but is consistent with demographic changes in many growing, diverse urban areas. This shift, combined with rising incomes, suggests that Park of the Canals may be experiencing a form of "minority-driven gentrification" or becoming an attractive destination for upwardly mobile minority families.
Park of the Canals has evolved from a predominantly white, low-diversity neighborhood to a moderately diverse, majority-minority community with improving economic indicators. This transformation reflects broader national trends of increasing diversity in suburban areas, particularly in regions with growing Hispanic populations. The concurrent rise in median income suggests that this demographic shift is accompanied by positive economic development.
