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Demographic Evolution of Zaferia: Hispanic Growth and Racial Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Zaferia, a neighborhood in Long Beach, California, exhibits characteristics of a Majority-Minority community with Moderate Diversity. As of 2022, the Hispanic population forms a racial plurality at 50%, while no single group constitutes a majority. The neighborhood's median income is $51,767 in 2022. Zaferia has a historic connection to the oil industry, which has influenced its demographic and economic landscape.
Over the past decade, Zaferia has undergone a transition in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood was categorized as a Majority-Minority community with Moderate Diversity, with the Hispanic population at 46%. By 2022, the Hispanic population increased to 50%, strengthening its plurality position. This shift suggests a trend towards a potential Hispanic Majority in the future if the current trajectory continues.
The Asian population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 17-21% over the decade. The Black population has declined from 15% in 2013 to 11% in 2022. The White population has decreased from 16% to 17% during this period. These changes indicate a gradual transition towards increased Hispanic representation, while maintaining a moderately diverse community structure.
The median income in Zaferia has shown overall growth, with fluctuations. From $42,244 in 2013, it rose to $56,565 in 2021 before declining to $51,767 in 2022. This upward trend in income correlates with the increasing Hispanic population. The period of highest income growth (2016-2019) coincided with a slight decrease in the Hispanic population percentage and an increase in the White population percentage. The population has remained relatively stable over the decade.
Zaferia's demographic evolution aligns with broader trends seen in many urban areas across the United States, particularly in California. The increase in Hispanic population reflects the growing Hispanic influence in many Californian cities. Zaferia's maintenance of significant Asian and Black populations distinguishes it from some other areas that have seen more dramatic shifts towards a single dominant minority group.
The neighborhood's economic growth appears to lag behind the overall economic recovery seen in many parts of California post-2008 recession. This could be related to Zaferia's historical reliance on industries like oil, which have faced challenges in recent years.
Zaferia represents a microcosm of the changing face of urban America, characterized by increasing diversity and gradual economic growth. Its evolution from a more evenly distributed diverse community to one with a strengthening Hispanic plurality, while maintaining significant representation from other groups, showcases the dynamic nature of demographic change in urban neighborhoods. The economic trends suggest ongoing challenges in achieving equitable growth across all demographic groups.
