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Demographic Shifts in East Hazel Crest, Illinois: A Study of Racial Composition and Economic Trends
CATEGORY
Demographics
DATA
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Loading Content...
Demographics
Population
Median Income
Racial Distributions
East Hazel Crest in Illinois exhibits a demographic profile categorized as a "Majority-Minority" community with a Black plurality. In 2022, the Black population constitutes 48% of the total, White residents 29%, and Hispanic residents 18%. The city's median income is $55,942, showing a decline from its peak in 2017. This economic shift coincides with a gradual population decrease, suggesting a complex interplay between demographic changes and economic conditions.
Over the past decade, East Hazel Crest has transitioned from a community with "Moderate Diversity" to a "Majority-Minority" status. In 2013, the city had a more balanced racial composition with 43% Black, 40% White, and 14% Hispanic residents. The most significant change has been the steady decline in the White population share, dropping from 40% in 2013 to 29% in 2022. Conversely, the Black population has increased from 43% to 48%, while the Hispanic population has grown from 14% to 18%.
This shift appears to be part of a "Transitional Community" trend, with increasing representation from minority groups and a growing multiracial population (from 1% in 2013 to 6% in 2022). The triggers for this transition could include changing housing patterns, economic opportunities, or broader demographic trends in the Chicago metropolitan area.
The demographic shifts correlate with fluctuations in median income. The median income peaked in 2017 at $69,895, coinciding with a period of relative stability in the racial composition. However, as the community transitioned more definitively towards a Majority-Minority status, the median income has declined, reaching $55,942 in 2022. This represents a 20% decrease over five years.
Simultaneously, the population has steadily decreased from 1,858 in 2010 to 1,417 in 2022, a 24% reduction. This population decline, coupled with the income decrease, suggests potential economic challenges that may be influencing or resulting from the demographic shifts.
The trends observed in East Hazel Crest align with broader national patterns of increasing diversity in suburban areas, particularly those near major metropolitan centers. The economic challenges faced by the community, including declining incomes and population loss, are also reflective of struggles faced by many small, diverse communities in post-industrial regions.
Based on the observed trends, East Hazel Crest is likely to continue its trajectory as a "Transitional Community" with increasing diversity. The Black population may soon cross the 50% threshold, potentially shifting the community from a Majority-Minority status to a "Black Majority" category. However, the growing Hispanic and multiracial populations suggest that the community might instead evolve towards a "High Diversity" classification in the coming years.
Economically, the declining population and median income trends are concerning. If these trends continue, the community may face challenges in maintaining public services and attracting new residents or businesses. However, increasing diversity can also bring new cultural and economic opportunities if properly leveraged.
East Hazel Crest is undergoing significant demographic and economic changes. These shifts present challenges and opportunities for reimagining community identity and fostering inclusive growth strategies that can capitalize on the area's increasing diversity.
