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Demographic Shifts and Racial Composition in Bitter Lake, Seattle: 2013-2022
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Bitter Lake, a neighborhood in Seattle, Washington, exhibited characteristics of "Moderate Diversity" as of 2022. The neighborhood had a White plurality (58%), with significant representation from Black (15%) and Asian (11%) populations. Economically, Bitter Lake's median income was $54,467 in 2022. Bitter Lake features a blend of urban and natural environments, including the actual Bitter Lake.
Over the past decade, Bitter Lake underwent a significant transformation in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood was categorized as having "Low Diversity," with a clear White majority (68%). By 2022, it had transitioned to "Moderate Diversity." This shift is attributed to a decrease in the White population percentage (from 68% to 58%) and increases in Asian (from 7% to 11%), Black (from 10% to 15%), and Hispanic (from 6% to 10%) populations.
The community has shown signs of being a "Transitional Community," evident in the consistent growth of the Asian and Hispanic populations over the years. The Black population also saw significant growth, especially between 2018 and 2020, jumping from 8% to 18% before slightly decreasing to 15% in 2022.
The median income in Bitter Lake showed an overall upward trend, with some fluctuations. From 2013 to 2022, the median income increased from $45,417 to $54,467, representing a 19.9% growth. There was a significant spike in 2021 to $62,571, followed by a decrease in 2022. This economic growth correlates with the increasing diversity in the neighborhood.
The population of Bitter Lake grew steadily, from 8,289 in 2013 to 9,551 in 2022, a 15.2% increase. This population growth, coupled with increasing diversity and rising median income, indicates a neighborhood experiencing both demographic and economic dynamism.
The demographic shifts observed in Bitter Lake align with broader trends seen in many urban areas across the United States, where increasing diversity is becoming the norm. The growth in Asian and Hispanic populations reflects national trends of these being the fastest-growing racial groups in the country.
The economic growth in Bitter Lake, while positive, appears to be somewhat modest compared to Seattle's overall economic boom in the past decade. This suggests that while the neighborhood is benefiting from the city's economic prosperity, it may not be experiencing gentrification to the same degree as some other Seattle neighborhoods.
Bitter Lake's evolution from a predominantly White community to one of moderate diversity, accompanied by steady economic growth, exemplifies the changing face of urban America. This transition brings both opportunities and challenges, as the community adapts to its new demographic makeup and the socio-economic implications that come with it.
