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Demographic Evolution of Willowbrook, Illinois: A Study of Racial Composition from 2013 to 2022
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Willowbrook, Illinois, experienced a significant demographic transformation between 2013 and 2022. The community transitioned from a White Majority to a Black Majority classification. As of 2022, Willowbrook had a population of 2,941 and a median income of $73,287.
The demographic shift in Willowbrook occurred rapidly over a decade. In 2013, the community was classified as White Majority with 63% of the population identifying as white. The city underwent several transitions, moving from White Majority to Moderate Diversity (2013-2017), then to Majority-Minority (2018-2019), and finally to Black Majority (2020-2022). The Black population increased from 21% in 2013 to 71% in 2022, while the white population decreased from 63% to 20% during the same period.
Economic trends in Willowbrook showed fluctuations over the past decade. The median income initially increased from $77,435 in 2013 to a peak of $89,731 in 2018, reached a new peak of $92,187 in 2021, but then experienced a sharp decline to $73,287 in 2022. The population grew steadily from 2,188 in 2013 to 2,941 in 2022, representing a 34% increase.
The demographic changes observed in Willowbrook are more pronounced than typical demographic shifts seen in most U.S. cities over a similar timeframe. The sharp decline in median income in 2022, despite the continuing increase in population, may indicate broader economic challenges or changes in the local job market.
Based on observed trends, Willowbrook is likely to remain a Black Majority community in the near future. The rapid increase in the Black population suggests strong community attraction or external factors encouraging this demographic shift. Two potential scenarios for future categorization include: 1) Continued Black Majority if current trends persist, or 2) Transition to Low Diversity if the Black population exceeds 75%.
The economic outlook for Willowbrook is uncertain. If the 2022 income drop is an anomaly, the city might return to its previous growth trajectory. However, if it represents a new trend, it could lead to socio-economic challenges that may influence future demographic patterns. This analysis highlights the dynamic nature of demographic and economic changes in Willowbrook, emphasizing the need for adaptive community planning and economic strategies.
