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Demographic Shifts in Basset Park: Analysis of Racial Diversity and Population Growth
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Basset Park, a neighborhood in Lansing, Michigan, demonstrates a "Moderate Diversity" demographic profile as of 2022. The population consists of 51% white, 31% Black, and 14% Hispanic residents. Over the past decade, the neighborhood has transitioned from a more homogeneous community to one with increasing diversity. Basset Park has experienced population growth, increasing from 2,050 residents in 2010 to 2,094 in 2022, despite fluctuations in between.
From 2013 to 2016, Basset Park was classified as a "White Majority" community, with whites comprising 49-60% of the population. During this period, there was a significant Hispanic presence of 25-30%, indicating a "Moderate Diversity" profile. Between 2017 and 2019, the neighborhood transitioned to a "High Diversity" category. No single racial group exceeded 40%, and at least three groups (White, Black, and Two or More Races) had significant representation (over 10% each).
From 2020 to 2022, Basset Park shifted back to a "Moderate Diversity" profile, with a notable increase in the Black population. The white population remained the largest group but decreased from 51% to 37% in 2020 before rebounding to 51% in 2022. This evolution suggests Basset Park is a "Transitional Community," with increasing diversity over the decade, particularly in the growth of the Black population and those identifying as two or more races.
The median income in Basset Park has shown significant volatility over the years. From 2013 to 2015, median income increased from $47,629 to $55,898, coinciding with the period of "White Majority." As diversity increased from 2016 to 2019, median income declined to $44,950, reaching its lowest point in 2019. Despite maintaining "Moderate Diversity" from 2020 to 2022, income rebounded dramatically to $62,798 in 2021 before settling at $50,507 in 2022. These fluctuations suggest that while increased diversity initially correlated with economic challenges, recent years have seen a recovery in median income alongside sustained diversity.
The demographic shifts in Basset Park align with broader national trends of increasing diversity in urban areas. However, the neighborhood's rapid transitions and income volatility are more pronounced than typical national averages. The significant growth in the Black population from 11% in 2013 to 31% in 2022 is particularly noteworthy and may reflect broader changes in Lansing or regional migration patterns.
The economic fluctuations, especially the sharp increase in median income in 2021 followed by a decline in 2022, could be indicative of the broader economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent recovery efforts. This volatility might have influenced or been influenced by the demographic changes, potentially attracting new residents or causing others to relocate.
Basset Park exemplifies a dynamic urban neighborhood undergoing significant demographic and economic changes. Its evolution from a predominantly white community to one of moderate diversity, coupled with fluctuating economic conditions, presents both challenges and opportunities for community cohesion and development. The neighborhood's ability to maintain population growth amidst these changes suggests a resilient community adapting to evolving socio-economic landscapes.
