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Demographic Shift and Economic Growth in Clayton Heights-Lomas del Cielo: A Hispanic Majority Neighborhood
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Clayton Heights-Lomas del Cielo, a neighborhood in Albuquerque, New Mexico, exhibits a Hispanic Majority demographic profile, with 62% of its population identifying as Hispanic in 2022. The neighborhood has experienced economic fluctuations over the past decade, with median income increasing from $21,973 in 2017 to $39,902 in 2022. This area is known for its Hispanic culture and community events celebrating cultural heritage.
Over the past decade, Clayton Heights-Lomas del Cielo has transitioned from a Moderate Diversity community to a Hispanic Majority area. In 2013, the neighborhood displayed Moderate Diversity with representation from Hispanic (51%), White (24%), and Black (7%) populations. By 2022, it had solidified its Hispanic Majority status with 62% of the population identifying as Hispanic.
This shift has been gradual but consistent, with the Hispanic population growing from 51% in 2013 to 67% in 2021, before slightly decreasing to 62% in 2022. The White population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 20-27% over the decade. The Black population increased from 2016 to 2019 (peaking at 12%) before declining to 3% by 2022.
The neighborhood's economic landscape has shown improvement, particularly in recent years. The median income rose from $21,902 in 2013 to $39,902 in 2022, an increase of 82% over nine years. This growth was not linear, with significant increases occurring between 2019 and 2020 (from $26,193 to $40,193) and again from 2021 to 2022 (from $31,844 to $39,902).
The solidification of the Hispanic Majority status coincided with these economic improvements. This could suggest that as the Hispanic community became more established, it may have led to increased economic opportunities. The population has remained relatively stable over the decade, fluctuating between about 1,800 and 2,400 residents.
The demographic shift towards a Hispanic Majority in Clayton Heights-Lomas del Cielo aligns with broader trends in the Southwest United States, where Hispanic populations have been growing. The economic improvements seen in this neighborhood are notable, especially given that Hispanic communities often face economic challenges.
The rise in median income from below the federal poverty line for a family of four in 2013 to approaching it in 2022 represents a significant change for the community. This neighborhood's evolution demonstrates how demographic shifts can coincide with economic improvements. It will be important to monitor whether these trends continue and ensure that the benefits of economic growth are distributed equitably among all residents.
