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Demographic Shifts and Racial Composition in Oak Lawn, Illinois: A Study from 2013 to 2022
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Oak Lawn, Illinois, currently exhibits characteristics of a "Moderate Diversity" community with a "White Majority." As of 2022, the white population comprises 66% of the total, with significant Hispanic representation at 21%. The city's median income of $78,397 in 2022 suggests a relatively affluent suburban community.
Over the past decade, Oak Lawn has been gradually transitioning from a "Low Diversity" community towards "Moderate Diversity." In 2013, the white population constituted 76% of the total, meeting the criteria for "Low Diversity." However, by 2022, this percentage had decreased to 66%, while the Hispanic population grew from 17% to 21%, and the Black population increased from 4% to 8%.
This shift indicates a "Transitional Community" status, with consistent increases in minority populations, particularly Hispanic and Black residents. The Asian population has also shown modest growth, from 1% in 2013 to 3% in 2022.
The demographic changes have occurred alongside fluctuations in median income. From 2013 to 2022, median income increased from $71,097 to $78,397, a 10.3% rise. Notably, there was a significant spike in 2021 to $86,701 before a decrease in 2022. This overall upward trend in income suggests that the increasing diversity has not negatively impacted the community's economic status.
The population has remained relatively stable, with a slight increase from 57,962 in 2013 to 58,602 in 2022. This stability, combined with increasing diversity and rising incomes, points to a gradually evolving community that is maintaining its economic base while becoming more inclusive.
Based on the observed trends, Oak Lawn is likely to continue its trajectory towards greater diversity. If current patterns persist, we can predict that the community may transition from "White Majority" to "White Plurality" within the next 5-10 years if the white population drops below 50%. The Hispanic population may continue to grow, potentially reaching or exceeding 25% of the total population. The community is likely to maintain its "Moderate Diversity" status but could potentially move towards "High Diversity" if the growth of minority populations accelerates.
Economic indicators suggest the community will likely maintain its relative affluence, with median incomes potentially continuing to rise, albeit with some fluctuations. The community might evolve into a "Majority-Minority" status in the long term (15-20 years) if current trends continue unabated.
Oak Lawn exemplifies a suburban community in transition, successfully navigating demographic changes while maintaining economic stability. This evolution presents both opportunities and challenges for community cohesion, cultural integration, and economic development in the coming years.
