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Demographic Shifts in Bemis Neighborhood: From White Majority to Increasing Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
The Bemis neighborhood in Watertown Town, Massachusetts, represents a White Majority community with a growing Asian population. As of 2022, the neighborhood had a population of 13,285 and a median income of $97,155. Bemis has been experiencing a gradual shift towards increased diversity over the past decade. The neighborhood is known for its historical significance, being home to the Bemis Mill, a former textile manufacturing complex that played a role in the area's industrial development during the 19th century.
Over the past decade, Bemis has undergone a transformation in its racial composition. In 2013, the neighborhood was categorized as Low Diversity, with the white population comprising 81% of residents. By 2022, while still maintaining a White Majority status, the community transitioned towards Moderate Diversity. The white population decreased to 67%, while the Asian population increased from 8% to 17%. This shift suggests a Transitional Community, with increasing representation from minority groups.
The Hispanic population has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 6% and 9% throughout the decade. The Black population has maintained a consistent presence of 2-3%. The category of "Two or More Races" has grown, increasing from 2% in 2013 to 6% in 2022, further indicating the neighborhood's increasing diversity.
The demographic shifts in Bemis have been accompanied by economic changes. The median income has shown an upward trend, rising from $94,627 in 2013 to $97,155 in 2022, with fluctuations in between. The peak median income of $116,337 was recorded in 2021, coinciding with the highest Asian population percentage (17%) and one of the lowest white population percentages (68%). The population has grown, increasing from 10,437 in 2013 to 13,285 in 2022, a 27% increase. This population growth, coupled with increasing diversity and rising median income, suggests that Bemis has become an attractive location for a more diverse, affluent population.
The demographic changes in Bemis reflect trends seen in many suburban areas near major cities. The increase in Asian population aligns with national trends of growing Asian communities in suburban areas, especially those with educational and professional opportunities. The increase in the "Two or More Races" category mirrors a national trend of increasing multiracial identification. The economic resilience of Bemis, as evidenced by its rising median income despite the COVID-19 pandemic, suggests a strong local economy. This economic strength, combined with increasing diversity, may indicate that Bemis is becoming a desirable location for diverse, high-skilled professionals, possibly due to its proximity to Boston and its educational and technological hubs.
Bemis remains a White Majority community, but it is on a trajectory towards greater diversity. This transition is accompanied by economic growth, suggesting a dynamic and evolving neighborhood that is attracting a more diverse, affluent population while maintaining its historical character. The changes in Bemis over the past decade reflect broader national trends of suburban diversification and economic development in areas near major urban centers.
