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Demographic Shifts and Asian Plurality in Riverview West, Santa Ana
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Riverview West, a neighborhood in Santa Ana, California, is classified as a Moderate Diversity community with a significant Asian plurality (46%) and Hispanic presence (42%) as of 2022. The area has undergone notable demographic changes over the past decade, accompanied by fluctuations in median income. Riverview West's proximity to the Santa Ana River likely influences its name and community dynamics.
In 2013, Riverview West displayed a nearly balanced composition between Asian (44%) and Hispanic (45%) populations, categorized as a High Diversity area. Over the decade, a subtle but steady shift towards an Asian plurality occurred, while maintaining Moderate Diversity status. The White population remained relatively stable at approximately 10%, with minimal representation from other racial groups.
The transition from High Diversity to Moderate Diversity with an Asian plurality indicates a gradual consolidation of the Asian community in the area. This shift may be attributed to factors such as immigration patterns, economic opportunities attracting Asian professionals, or community network effects.
The median income in Riverview West has shown an overall upward trend, increasing from $60,994 in 2013 to $64,678 in 2022, with fluctuations in between. A significant spike to $71,761 occurred in 2021, followed by a decrease in 2022. This general increase in median income correlates with the growing Asian plurality, potentially indicating that the influx of Asian residents may be associated with higher-paying jobs or economic opportunities.
The population of Riverview West has been decreasing since 2016, dropping from 50,969 to 43,553 in 2022. This population decline, combined with rising median incomes, suggests a possible gentrification process or a shift towards smaller, more affluent households.
The demographic shifts in Riverview West align with broader trends seen in many California urban areas, where Asian and Hispanic populations have been growing. However, the decrease in population is somewhat contrary to the general trend of urban growth in California, potentially indicating unique local factors affecting Riverview West.
The median income growth in Riverview West, while positive, has not kept pace with California's overall median income growth, which increased more substantially over the same period. This suggests that while the neighborhood is experiencing economic improvements, it may be lagging behind the state's overall economic growth.
The combination of increasing Asian plurality, rising median incomes, and decreasing population indicates a neighborhood in transition. These changes likely have implications for local businesses, housing markets, and community services, potentially reshaping the character of Riverview West. The community may be experiencing a form of suburban gentrification, where demographic shifts are leading to changes in local amenities and housing costs, which could be contributing to the population decline as some residents are priced out of the area.
