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Demographic Evolution of Wetherby Neighborhood: From White Majority to Moderate Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Wetherby neighborhood in Iowa City, Iowa, has undergone significant demographic changes from 2013 to 2022. In 2013, the neighborhood was categorized as having a "White Majority" with 59% of the population identifying as White. By 2022, it transitioned to a "Moderate Diversity" status, with a White plurality (47%) and a significant Black population (33%). The median income in 2022 was $57,544, indicating a middle-class community. Wetherby's proximity to the University of Iowa likely influences its demographic and economic characteristics.
Over the past decade, Wetherby transformed from a "White Majority" community to one of "Moderate Diversity." The most notable change has been the increase in the Black population, rising from 25% in 2013 to 33% in 2022. This shift, along with growth in Asian and Hispanic populations, has contributed to the neighborhood's increased diversity. Since 2015, the community has consistently maintained its "Moderate Diversity" status, with two or three racial groups having significant representation.
The median income in Wetherby has shown considerable volatility over the years. From 2013 to 2016, there was a significant drop in median income from $47,558 to $38,360, coinciding with the transition to a more diverse community. Since 2016, there has been a general upward trend in income, reaching $57,544 in 2022. This economic recovery and growth might be attributed to the increasing diversity of the neighborhood, potentially bringing in a wider range of skills and economic opportunities.
The demographic shifts observed in Wetherby align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban areas, particularly in university towns. The growth of the Black population in Wetherby is noteworthy, as it outpaces national averages for demographic change in similar-sized communities.
The economic fluctuations seen in Wetherby, especially the sharp decline and subsequent recovery of median income, may reflect broader economic trends such as the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis and subsequent recovery. The magnitude of these changes suggests local factors, possibly related to university policies or local economic developments, have played a significant role.
Wetherby exemplifies a "Transitional Community," having evolved from a predominantly White neighborhood to one of moderate diversity over the past decade. This transition has been accompanied by economic fluctuations, but the overall trend suggests a community that has become more diverse and economically resilient. The interplay between demographic changes and economic trends in Wetherby offers insights into the dynamics of evolving urban communities, particularly those influenced by major institutions like universities.
