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Demographic Shift: Hispanic Majority in Zip Code 19604, Reading, Pennsylvania
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Zip code 19604 in Reading, Pennsylvania, experienced a significant demographic shift from 2013 to 2022. The area transitioned from a majority-minority status to a clear racial majority, with the Hispanic population increasing from 56% to 72%. This change occurred alongside moderate population growth and fluctuating median income levels.
The white population in the area decreased from 32% in 2013 to 20% in 2022, indicating a transitional community status. The Black population remained relatively stable at 6-8% throughout the decade. Asian and Native American groups consistently represented 1% or less of the population.
Economic trends in the zip code showed an overall increase in median income from $35,599 in 2013 to $45,287 in 2022, with significant fluctuations including a peak of $49,313 in 2021. The population grew from 27,402 in 2013 to 30,690 in 2022, representing a 12% increase over the decade.
The community demonstrated economic resilience despite demographic shifts, with the growing Hispanic majority contributing to economic stability and growth. However, the median income remained below the national average, indicating ongoing economic challenges in the area.
The increase in the Hispanic population in this zip code aligns with broader national trends of growing Hispanic communities in many urban areas across the United States. The transition from a majority-minority area to a clear Hispanic majority reflects patterns seen in many urban centers where certain ethnic groups become predominant over time.
Variations in median income over the years may reflect broader economic trends, including recovery from the 2008 financial crisis and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The zip code 19604 exemplifies the dynamic nature of urban demographics in the United States and the complex interplay between racial composition and economic factors in evolving communities.
