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Demographic Shifts and Racial Diversity in Fairground Neighborhood, Des Moines
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Fairground neighborhood in Des Moines, Iowa, is classified as a Moderate Diversity community with a White Majority. As of 2022, the neighborhood has a population of 4,437 and a median income of $39,156. The area is located near the Iowa State Fairgrounds, which may influence its demographic and economic patterns.
Over the past decade, Fairground has experienced significant changes in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood was categorized as having Low Diversity with a White Majority (68%). By 2022, it had evolved into a Moderate Diversity community, with the White population decreasing to 60% and the Hispanic population increasing from 16% to 31%.
This shift indicates a Transitional Community, particularly evident in the growth of the Hispanic population and the increase in residents identifying as two or more races (from 1% in 2013 to 6% in 2022). The Black population has fluctuated, peaking at 10% in 2021 before decreasing to 2% in 2022, suggesting dynamic demographic changes.
The median income in Fairground has shown volatility over the past decade. It peaked in 2014 at $50,572 but has since declined to $39,156 in 2022, representing a 22.6% decrease. This economic downturn coincides with the neighborhood's increasing diversity.
The population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 4,100 and 5,000 residents throughout the decade. However, there has been a slight population decline from the peak of 5,020 in 2017 to 4,437 in 2022.
The demographic shifts observed in Fairground align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban areas. The growth in the Hispanic population reflects larger patterns of Hispanic population growth across the Midwest. However, the economic decline experienced in Fairground contrasts with the general trend of economic recovery and growth seen in many urban areas following the 2008 recession.
The neighborhood's proximity to the Iowa State Fairgrounds may contribute to its unique demographic and economic patterns. The seasonal influx of visitors and temporary workers during fair events could influence local employment opportunities and housing dynamics.
Fairground exemplifies a neighborhood in transition, moving from Low Diversity to Moderate Diversity over the past decade. This demographic shift, coupled with economic challenges, presents both opportunities and obstacles for community development and integration.
