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Demographic Shift in Hillcrest Terrace: From Moderate to Low Racial Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Hillcrest Terrace in Mesa, Arizona, exhibits a distinct demographic profile as of 2022. The neighborhood has a population of 990 and a median income of $59,194. It is classified as having "Low Diversity" based on established criteria. The white population comprises 72% of the residents, indicating a dominant racial composition. Hillcrest Terrace is situated near the Mesa Arizona Temple, a significant landmark of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which may influence the area's demographic characteristics.
Over the past decade, Hillcrest Terrace has experienced notable changes in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood displayed a "Moderate Diversity" profile, with significant Native American (15%) and Hispanic (20%) populations alongside a white majority (64%). By 2022, the area transitioned to a "Low Diversity" category, with the white population increasing to 72% and other racial groups declining in proportion.
This shift indicates a gradual homogenization of the neighborhood's racial makeup. The Native American population decreased from 34% in 2015 to 1% in 2022. The Hispanic population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 15-24% over the years.
The demographic shifts in Hillcrest Terrace correlate with fluctuations in median income. In 2013, when the area showed moderate diversity, the median income was $61,703. As the neighborhood transitioned towards lower diversity, median income experienced volatility. It decreased to $34,947 in 2014 before gradually recovering. By 2022, the median income reached $59,194, nearly returning to its 2013 level.
This economic pattern suggests that the initial diversification may have coincided with economic challenges, potentially leading to demographic changes. The subsequent increase in the white population percentage aligns with a gradual economic recovery, though not reaching earlier peak levels.
The demographic evolution of Hillcrest Terrace diverges from broader national trends towards increasing diversity. While many urban areas in the United States have experienced growing minority populations and increased racial mixing, this neighborhood has become less diverse over time.
The economic fluctuations observed in Hillcrest Terrace reflect some national patterns, particularly the recovery from the 2008 financial crisis. However, the neighborhood's specific trajectory, with its sharp drop and gradual recovery, suggests local factors at play, possibly related to changes in the local job market or housing policies.
The population of Hillcrest Terrace has grown from 790 in 2010 to 990 in 2022, indicating that the area has attracted new residents. This growth, combined with the increasing homogeneity, suggests that the neighborhood has become particularly attractive to a specific demographic, possibly due to factors like the proximity to the Mesa Arizona Temple or other local amenities that appeal to a predominantly white population.
Hillcrest Terrace presents a case of a neighborhood diverging from national diversity trends, transitioning from moderate diversity to low diversity over a decade. This shift has been accompanied by economic volatility and eventual stabilization, indicating a community undergoing significant demographic and economic changes that may be reshaping its local character and appeal to potential residents.
