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Demographic Shift and Race Data in Lansing, Illinois: From White Plurality to Black Plurality
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Lansing, Illinois, exhibits a demographic profile categorized as a "Majority-Minority" community with "Moderate Diversity" as of 2022. The Black population constitutes a plurality at 49%, the White population has declined to 26%, and the Hispanic population has grown to 18%. The median income in 2022 was $65,512, reflecting a relationship between racial demographics and economic conditions.
Over the past decade, Lansing has undergone a transformation in its racial composition. In 2013, the community was characterized by a "White Plurality" (49%) with a substantial Black population (36%). By 2017, it had transitioned to a "Black Plurality" community, with the Black population reaching 42% while the White population decreased to 41%. By 2020, Lansing could be classified as a "Majority-Minority" community, with minority groups collectively constituting over 50% of the population.
The most notable changes include a steady increase in the Black population from 36% in 2013 to 49% in 2022, a significant decrease in the White population from 49% in 2013 to 26% in 2022, a gradual increase in the Hispanic population from 13% in 2013 to 18% in 2022, and the emergence of a small but growing Asian population and an increase in individuals identifying as two or more races. These shifts suggest that Lansing is also a "Transitional Community," showing consistent changes in racial makeup over the past decade.
The median income in Lansing has fluctuated over the years, showing an overall upward trend despite some volatility. In 2013, it was $59,972. It reached its lowest point in the available data in 2017 at $56,734, coinciding with the transition to a Black Plurality community. The highest point was in 2021 at $71,701, and in 2022 it was $65,512. This suggests that the demographic shifts may have initially caused some economic disruption, but the community has since adapted and experienced economic growth.
The trends observed in Lansing align with broader patterns seen in many suburban areas near major cities. The increasing diversity and the transition to a Majority-Minority community reflect national trends of growing diversity in suburban areas, particularly those near large metropolitan centers.
Based on the observed trends, it is likely that Lansing will continue its trajectory as a "Transitional Community" moving towards even greater diversity. The Black population may soon constitute a "Racial Majority" if it exceeds 50%. However, given the growth of other minority groups, particularly the Hispanic population, Lansing might instead transition into a "High Diversity" community in the coming years.
Economically, if the community continues to adapt successfully to its changing demographics, further increases in median income might be observed. However, this will depend on factors such as local economic development initiatives, educational opportunities, and broader regional economic trends.
Lansing represents a community undergoing significant demographic changes while experiencing overall economic growth. Its evolution from a White Plurality to a Majority-Minority community with increasing diversity reflects broader national trends and presents both challenges and opportunities for community development and social cohesion.
