Loading Content...
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
DeKalb, Illinois, as of 2022, is classified as a "Moderate Diversity" community with a "White Majority." The white population constitutes 60% of the total, with other racial groups having significant representation. The city's median income is $51,299, and its population is 42,143, showing a slight decline from previous years.
Over the past decade, DeKalb has transitioned from "Low Diversity" to "Moderate Diversity." In 2013, the city had a "White Majority" at 69% of the population. By 2022, this percentage decreased to 60%, while other racial groups, particularly Black and Hispanic populations, increased their representation.
The city is exhibiting signs of becoming a "Transitional Community." The percentage of residents identifying as two or more races has increased from 2% in 2013 to 5% in 2022. The Hispanic population has grown from 12% to 15% during this period.
As the city has become more diverse, there has been a moderate increase in median income. From 2013 to 2022, the median income rose from $46,018 to $51,299, an increase of about 11.5%. This suggests that increased diversity has not negatively impacted the city's overall economic well-being.
The population has decreased from 46,099 in 2013 to 42,143 in 2022, a decline of about 8.6%. This population decrease, coupled with increasing diversity and rising median income, might indicate a complex interplay of factors such as changing job markets, housing costs, or shifts in the local economy.
The trends observed in DeKalb align with broader patterns seen in many mid-sized American cities. Increasing racial diversity, particularly growth in Hispanic and multiracial populations, is a common trend across the United States. The moderate income growth is also consistent with national trends, although the population decline might be more specific to this region or city type.
Based on the observed trends, DeKalb is likely to continue its trajectory towards greater diversity. If current trends persist, the city may transition from a "White Majority" to a "Majority-Minority" community within the next decade. The Hispanic population and those identifying as two or more races are likely to continue growing, while the white population may fall below 50%.
Economically, the city may continue to see modest income growth. However, the declining population trend is a concern that local policymakers may need to address. If this trend reverses and the city begins to attract new residents drawn by its increasing diversity and economic opportunities, DeKalb could potentially evolve into a "High Diversity" community in the longer term.
DeKalb is undergoing a significant demographic transition that is reshaping its community fabric. These changes present challenges and opportunities for cultural enrichment and economic development if managed effectively.