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Demographic Shifts in Atascadero, California: From White Majority to Increasing Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Atascadero, California, is classified as a Low Diversity city with a White Majority comprising 72% of the population as of 2022. The city's median income was $86,472 in 2022, indicating a relatively affluent community. Over the past decade, Atascadero has maintained its Low Diversity status with a White Majority, but shows signs of a gradual shift towards increased diversity. The White population decreased from 80% in 2013 to 72% in 2022, while the Hispanic population grew from 15% in 2013 to 21% in 2022. The Two or More Races category increased from 1% in 2013 to 4% in 2022.
The median income in Atascadero has shown overall growth, rising from $78,147 in 2013 to $86,472 in 2022, an increase of about 10.7%. This growth has not been linear, with a peak in median income in 2021 at $92,954, followed by a decrease in 2022. The population has grown modestly from 31,443 in 2013 to 33,113 in 2022, an increase of about 5.3%.
Atascadero's demographic shifts align with broader trends seen in many California communities, where Hispanic populations are growing and communities are becoming more diverse. The city's median income remains higher than the national average, indicating a relatively prosperous community despite recent fluctuations.
Based on observed trends, Atascadero is likely to continue its transition towards greater diversity over the next decade. If current trends persist, the White population may decrease to around 65-68% by 2032, the Hispanic population could reach 25-27%, and the Two or More Races category might increase to 6-7%. These changes could push Atascadero towards the threshold of being reclassified as a Moderate Diversity community within the next 5-10 years, while still maintaining a White Plurality.
Economically, if the city can recover from the recent dip in median income, it may see continued growth, potentially reaching a median income of $95,000-$100,000 by 2032. This growth could attract more diverse populations seeking economic opportunities, further accelerating the demographic shift.
Atascadero is showing signs of evolving from a Low Diversity, White Majority community towards a more diverse demographic makeup, while maintaining its economic prosperity. This gradual transition reflects broader societal changes and may bring both opportunities and challenges as the community adapts to its changing composition.
