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Demographic Shifts in Darlington: From White Majority to Increasing Racial Diversity
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Darlington, a neighborhood in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, exhibits demographic characteristics of a White Majority community with increasing diversity. As of 2022, the neighborhood population is 10,161 with a median income of $77,477. The white population comprises 66% of the total, while the Hispanic population represents 19% and the multi-racial population accounts for 7%. This composition indicates a Transitional Community status. Darlington is characterized by its historic Victorian-era homes, contributing to its distinct identity within Pawtucket.
Over the past decade, Darlington has transitioned from Low Diversity to Moderate Diversity. In 2013, the neighborhood was categorized as Low Diversity with a white population of 75%. By 2022, this figure decreased to 66%. The shift is attributed to growth in the Hispanic population, which increased from 8% in 2013 to 19% in 2022, and individuals identifying as two or more races, increasing from 2% to 7% during the same period.
The most significant change occurred between 2018 and 2021, with the Hispanic population increasing from 12% to 20%, and the white population decreasing from 76% to 65%. This rapid change further supports the neighborhood's classification as a Transitional Community, moving towards increased diversity.
The demographic shifts in Darlington have coincided with an increase in median income. From 2013 to 2022, the median income rose from $68,899 to $77,477, an increase of approximately 12.5%. This trend suggests that increasing diversity has not led to economic decline, and may have contributed to economic growth.
The most substantial income growth occurred between 2019 and 2021, with median income increasing from $69,712 to $82,247, an 18% increase in two years. This period aligns with the most rapid diversification of the neighborhood, indicating a possible correlation between increased diversity and economic prosperity.
The trends observed in Darlington reflect broader national patterns of increasing diversity in suburban areas. Many traditionally white-majority suburbs across the United States have experienced similar demographic shifts, particularly with growth in Hispanic and multi-racial populations. Darlington's economic growth alongside its diversification is notable, as it counters some narratives that associate demographic changes with economic challenges.
The neighborhood's median income of $77,477 in 2022 is higher than the national median household income of approximately $70,784 for the same year. This suggests that Darlington remains an economically stable and potentially attractive area for residents, even as it undergoes demographic changes.
Darlington exemplifies a Transitional Community, evolving from Low Diversity to Moderate Diversity over the past decade. The neighborhood's ability to maintain economic growth while undergoing significant demographic shifts presents a case study in community development and integration. Continued monitoring of these demographic and economic trends will be crucial in understanding how they shape the neighborhood's future character and opportunities.
