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Demographic Shifts in Beaver Falls, PA: White Majority and Racial Diversity Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
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Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, as of 2022, is classified as a White Majority community with a median income of $37,145. The city's racial composition consists of a dominant white population (68%) and a significant Black representation (22%). This demographic makeup, along with the presence of other racial groups, indicates a trend towards Moderate Diversity.
Over the past decade, Beaver Falls has transitioned from Low Diversity to Moderate Diversity. In 2013, the city was categorized as White Majority with 80% of the population identifying as white. By 2022, this percentage decreased to 68%, while the Black population increased from 13% to 22%. This shift suggests a Transitional Community status, with increasing representation from minority groups. The Hispanic and Asian populations, though small, have shown consistent growth, further contributing to the city's diversification.
The median income in Beaver Falls has fluctuated over the years, showing a general upward trend from $36,052 in 2013 to $37,145 in 2022. This modest increase of about 3% over a decade suggests economic stagnation when adjusted for inflation. The period of greatest racial diversification (2013-2022) coincided with periods of both economic growth and decline. The median income peaked at $39,220 in 2019, corresponding with increased diversity, but has since declined slightly.
The population of Beaver Falls has remained relatively stable, decreasing slightly from 8,914 in 2013 to 8,934 in 2022. This stability, combined with increasing diversity, suggests that demographic changes are likely due to both natural population changes and possibly some in-migration of minority groups.
The trends observed in Beaver Falls align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in small to medium-sized cities. The modest economic growth and population stability are also characteristic of many Rust Belt cities working to reinvent themselves in the post-industrial era.
Based on the observed trends, Beaver Falls is likely to continue its trajectory towards greater diversity. If current trends persist, the city may transition from Moderate Diversity to High Diversity within the next decade. The white population may fall below 60%, while the Black population could approach or exceed 25%. Hispanic and Asian populations are likely to continue growing, albeit slowly.
Economically, unless there are significant changes in local industry or policy, the city may continue to experience modest income growth. However, increasing diversity could potentially bring new economic opportunities and cultural vibrancy to the area, which might positively impact future income levels.
Beaver Falls appears to be in a period of demographic transition, moving towards greater diversity. While economic growth has been modest, the changing demographic landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for community development and economic revitalization in the coming years.
