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Demographic Shifts and Racial Diversity in Northeast-Wilson Park, St. Cloud
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Northeast-Wilson Park neighborhood in St. Cloud, Minnesota, has experienced significant demographic changes from 2013 to 2022. The area has transitioned from a Low Diversity community to one approaching Moderate Diversity. In 2013, the white population constituted 87% of the neighborhood, which decreased to 73% by 2022. Concurrently, the Black population increased from 3% to 18%. This shift indicates a transition towards greater racial diversity.
The most notable change occurred in the Black population, which increased sixfold over the decade. Other racial groups, including Asians and those of two or more races, also saw modest increases. These changes contribute to the overall diversification of the neighborhood.
The median income in Northeast-Wilson Park has shown an overall upward trend, increasing from $39,356 in 2013 to $44,098 in 2022, representing a 12% growth. However, this growth was not linear, with significant variations from year to year. The peak median income of $49,476 was recorded in 2021, coinciding with the period of increased racial diversity.
The population has remained relatively stable over the decade, with minor fluctuations. This stability, combined with increasing diversity and rising incomes, indicates a neighborhood undergoing gradual but significant socio-economic changes.
The demographic shifts observed in Northeast-Wilson Park align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in suburban and urban areas. Many U.S. cities have experienced similar transitions from predominantly white communities to more diverse neighborhoods over the past decade.
The economic growth in this neighborhood is notable given the national context of recovery from the 2008 financial crisis and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The neighborhood's ability to maintain and slightly increase its median income during these challenging times suggests a degree of economic resilience.
The presence of St. Cloud State University likely influences the neighborhood's demographics and economy. Universities often attract a diverse student and faculty population, which can affect local demographics and contribute to economic stability through job creation and housing demand.
Northeast-Wilson Park exemplifies a broader national trend of increasing diversity in traditionally homogeneous communities. The neighborhood's transition from Low Diversity to approaching Moderate Diversity, coupled with modest economic growth, indicates a community in flux. These changes likely bring both opportunities and challenges as the neighborhood adapts to its evolving demographic landscape.
