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Demographic Shifts and Racial Diversity in Fabrique Neighborhood, Wichita
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Fabrique neighborhood in Wichita, Kansas, exhibits characteristics of a Moderate Diversity community with a transitional nature. As of 2022, the neighborhood has a population of 4,087 and a median income of $35,585. The area's population consists of 40% White, 30% Hispanic, 20% Black, and 7% identifying as two or more races. This diversity aligns with Wichita's reputation as a culturally diverse city, influenced by its aviation industry.
Over the past decade, Fabrique has experienced significant changes in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood was categorized as having a White Plurality, with 44% of the population identifying as white. By 2022, it had transitioned to a Moderate Diversity status. This shift is characterized by a decrease in the white population percentage and increases in Black and Hispanic populations, as well as those identifying as two or more races.
The Black population increased from 15% in 2013 to 20% in 2022, while the Hispanic population slightly decreased from 32% to 30%. The percentage of residents identifying as two or more races more than doubled, from 3% to 7%, indicating a trend towards increased racial mixing and diversity. These changes suggest that Fabrique is becoming a Transitional Community, moving towards greater diversity over time.
The demographic shifts in Fabrique have occurred alongside fluctuations in median income. In 2013, the median income was $32,236, which peaked at $38,957 in 2014 before declining and then recovering to $35,585 in 2022. This pattern suggests a complex relationship between demographic changes and economic conditions.
The initial increase in income coincided with a period of growing diversity. However, the subsequent decline and partial recovery in income levels might reflect broader economic challenges or changes in the local job market affecting all demographic groups. The population has remained relatively stable over the decade, with minor fluctuations, suggesting that the demographic changes are more likely due to shifting racial identities and migration patterns within the existing population rather than large-scale population changes.
The trends observed in Fabrique align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in urban areas. Many U.S. cities have experienced similar transitions towards greater racial and ethnic diversity, particularly in neighborhoods close to city centers or industrial areas.
The economic fluctuations in Fabrique may reflect broader trends in Wichita's economy, which has faced challenges in recent years due to changes in the aviation industry, a major employer in the region. The ability of the neighborhood to maintain a relatively stable population and recover some of its economic losses suggests a degree of resilience and adaptability among its diverse residents.
Fabrique exemplifies a neighborhood in transition, moving towards greater diversity while navigating economic challenges. This evolution reflects broader national trends towards increased racial and ethnic mixing in urban areas, as well as the complex interplay between demographic changes and economic conditions in American cities.
