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Demographic Shift in Zip Code 79761: Hispanic Majority and Racial Composition Analysis
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The zip code 79761 in Odessa, Texas, has undergone significant demographic changes from 2013 to 2022. As of 2022, the area is classified as a "Hispanic Majority" community with a population of 31,750 and a median income of $62,815. This represents a transformation from its 2013 status as a "Majority-Minority" community.
The Hispanic population in the zip code increased from 55% in 2013 to 68% in 2022, solidifying its majority status. Concurrently, the white population decreased from 34% to 22% over the same period. The Black and Asian populations remained relatively stable, showing only minor fluctuations. A small but consistent "Two or More Races" category emerged, maintaining 1% of the population from 2016 onwards.
The area experienced economic fluctuations during this period. The median income peaked at $73,914 in 2016 before declining and partially recovering to $62,815 in 2022. Population growth was observed from 2013 to 2018, followed by a slight decline and subsequent rebound. These economic trends coincided with the increase in the Hispanic population, suggesting that demographic shifts were influenced by factors beyond economic opportunities alone.
The demographic shift in this Odessa zip code aligns with broader trends observed in Texas and the southwestern United States, where Hispanic populations have been growing rapidly. The extent of the shift from 55% to 68% Hispanic in a decade is particularly noteworthy.
The income volatility observed in the area is characteristic of regions dependent on industries such as oil and gas, which are prominent in the Odessa area. The peak in median income in 2016 followed by a decline corresponds with known boom-bust cycles in the energy sector.
The stability of the Black and Asian populations, despite significant changes in other demographics, suggests these communities may have established stable positions within the local economy or social structure that were less affected by the factors driving broader demographic changes.
The zip code 79761 has undergone a significant transformation over the past decade, solidifying its status as a Hispanic Majority community while experiencing economic fluctuations typical of energy-dependent regions. The interplay between demographic shifts and economic trends has reshaped the community's composition and likely its cultural landscape, presenting both opportunities and challenges for local policymakers and community leaders.
