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Demographic Shifts and Racial Composition in Laurel Hill: A Study of White Plurality and Hispanic Growth
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Laurel Hill, a neighborhood in Des Moines, Iowa, exhibits a changing demographic landscape as of 2022. It is classified as a "Transitional Community" with a "White Plurality." The neighborhood has undergone significant changes in its racial composition over the past decade, transitioning from a predominantly white area to one with increasing diversity. Laurel Hill has also experienced fluctuations in median income, with a notable upward trend in recent years.
In 2013, Laurel Hill was classified as an area of "Low Diversity" with a "White Majority" (84% white). Over the next decade, the neighborhood underwent a significant transformation. By 2018, it had transitioned to a "Moderate Diversity" status, with the white population decreasing to 57% and Hispanic representation increasing to 22%. This shift continued, and by 2022, Laurel Hill was characterized as having a "White Plurality" (59% white) with a strong Hispanic presence (27%), indicating a "Transitional Community" status.
The median income in Laurel Hill has shown an overall upward trend, with some fluctuations. In 2013, the median income was $59,162, which rose to $72,469 by 2021, representing an increase of about 22.5% over eight years. However, there was a slight decrease to $67,163 in 2022. The period of most rapid diversification (2015-2018) coincided with a period of relatively stable median incomes, ranging from $55,707 to $61,710. The subsequent years saw both continued diversification and more substantial income growth.
The trends observed in Laurel Hill align with broader patterns seen in many urban areas across the United States. The shift from a predominantly white community to one with increasing Hispanic representation is reflective of changing demographics in many Midwestern cities. The economic growth alongside increasing diversity is consistent with research suggesting that diverse communities often experience economic benefits.
The population of Laurel Hill has remained relatively stable over the decade, fluctuating between about 950 and 1,200 residents. This stability in population size, combined with increasing diversity and rising incomes, suggests that the neighborhood has managed to attract and retain a diverse mix of residents while improving its economic standing.
Laurel Hill exemplifies a neighborhood in transition, moving from low diversity to moderate diversity with a trend towards becoming a majority-minority community. This demographic evolution has been accompanied by overall positive economic trends, positioning Laurel Hill as a representation of broader urban demographic and economic shifts occurring across America.
